The 22nd Bluefeather Music Festival focused on healing the soul with music.
Held in Whitehorse from November 5th to November 6th, the event brought together several artists from around the world, with a focus on youth and Indigenous performers. For festival founder Gary Bailey, a mainstay of the region’s music scene since 2000, Blue Feather is all about bringing together artists from different generations.
“This festival is a grassroots indigenous beginning, but really it’s about inviting everyone,” Bailey told CBC News.
“I always thought the greatest part of Indigenous culture was welcoming and sharing people. We just try to create. We have a lot of great hidden talents.”
Bailey said this year’s theme, “Peace of Mind,” was chosen not only to promote peace and equanimity, but also in honor of Ukraine.
On this occasion, blue and yellow splashes of the Ukrainian flag were thrown all over the stage artwork.
“We believe in finding peace within ourselves and within our hearts, but we also believe in finding peace on our planet.
“Music has a universal language, and it seems that there is peace in the world when the music is playing, but as soon as the music stops, war begins.”
young and old musicians
The two-day event featured several well-known artists, including former Rolling Stones performers Stevie Salas and Bernard Fowler. Rock and blues singer Sass Jordan. And Bria Rose, who made her stage debut at Blue Feather this year.
Sierra Levesque, one of the festival’s youngest artists, told CBC News it’s a chance to connect with like-minded people.
“Sometimes I feel a little left out in school. People don’t really understand musicians,” Levesque said. “Most of my songs are about wanting to be somewhere else.”
The 17-year-old from Pembroke, about 150 kilometers from Ottawa, has spent the past decade performing in bars, parks and even the back of a pickup truck, but taking the stage at the Blue Feather Music Festival is a milestone. He said.
“It feels great. I never thought I’d be able to play in the Yukon, so I’m so happy I made the trip. It’s a great opportunity to meet so many rock artists who share our love of music,” she said. rice field. .
Although the event showcased experienced musicians, Bailey explained that one of the festival’s missions is also to mentor young people in all areas of production and performance.
“There are some, and they take music to a whole other level,” he said.
“They practiced a lot and rehearsed for a couple of days before going on stage. It was very unique. Young people were interacting with them and observing them. There’s a thing..that’s my salary.”
