Wîchoîe Ahiya Concert featuring Dale Mac and MJ Dandeneau

Miranda Currie is pictured singing and playing guitar during a performance at Banff Centre's 2019 Indigenous Arts Singer Songwriter residency

Banff Centre 2019, Indigenous Arts Singer Songwriter Residency, Miranda Currie (guitar/vocals). Photo by Jessica Wittman

Indigenous Arts is hosting two concerts showcasing the participants and faculty of the Wîchoîe Ahiya Singer Songwriter Residency!

Inspired by Elder Buddy Wesley, Wîchoîe Ahiya (“Wee-cho-ee-ay A-hee-ya”) means “singing words” in Stoney Nakoda. The Wîchoîe Ahiya Indigenous Singer Songwriter Residency invites Indigenous singer songwriters to deepen their creative practice as they explore the entire process of songwriting.

After an opening offered by Olivia Tailfeathers and Julien Tailfeathers, enjoy new works by program participants. This concert is co-hosted by faculty Dale Mac and MJ Dandeneau.

Co-hosted by:

Dale Mac

Dale Mac is from White Bear First Nations, Saskatchewan. His storytelling and music are backed by his soulful and energetic guitars. Whether performing acoustic roots in venues or rock-based stage shows, Dale’s guitar is the energy behind his style. His influences include Pearl Jam, Clapton, Gord Downie, and Springsteen. Dale’s songs and lyrics are based around Canadian landscapes and settings.

Dale’s second EP “American Horse” was nominated for Indigenous Artist Of The Year at the 2018 Sask Music Awards.

He was nominated for the 2021 Industry Achievement Award at the Sask Music Awards for his work with Indigenous Arts boards and bridging communities. Dale also works towards creating opportunities for the next generation of Indigenous artists.

His third album in production titled "Pežuda Road" aka Medicine Road is based on his positive stories and preserving his Nakota language through recording elders, storytellers and blending the impact of language preservation with his music.

MJ Dandeneau