THE JUNO-NOMINATED PROJECT CURATED BY ANDREW BALFOUR
NAGAMO (sings)
NAGAMO CD available now for purchase in our store, on Bandcamp, or on Redshift Records, and to stream or purchase on all your favourite platforms. Stay tuned for further announcements of more touring performances of NAGAMO in 2024.
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“NAGAMO (Sings) reimagines history and the concept of nation to nation respect and musical dialogue between the nations of the so-called New World and Old World. During the beginning of the 17th century, several Chiefs and esteemed Indigenous leaders journeyed to Europe in the hope of forging alliances. In many cases, they were treated as respected ambassadors. NAGAMO explores the fantastical idea of what might have happened if the sharing of music, and the respect of culture had contrived, and how a different history might have played out.”
Andrew Balfour, curator
Revolving around Elizabethan choral music by Byrd, Tallis, and Gibbons, NAGAMO also features the unique musical perspective of Balfour’s reimagining of these motets into Cree and Ojibway. Compositions by Balfour himself explores universal ideas of governance, diplomacy, and culture, as well as the challenges Indigenous peoples face today.
NAGAMO: TOURING
THE AWARD-WINNING PROJECT ACROSS THE COUNTRY!
Since it was premiered in 2022, NAGAMO has travelled across Turtle Island and shows no signs of slowing! Performances have taken place in Ottawa, Toronto, London, Montréal, St. John's, Winnipeg, and Edmonton, and together with Andrew, we've worked with more than 1000 singers in workshops and rehearsals. The journey is ongoing, and we look forward to being in more communities across the country in the 24/25 season and beyond!
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The NAGAMO tours have been supported by the Canada Council for the Arts, Azrieli Foundation, SOCAN Foundation, Hamber Foundation, Chris Spencer Foundation, and the British Columbia Arts Council.
Poster art by Sonny Assu: NAGAMO, 2022, commissioned by musica intima through the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Arts Commissioning Fund.
