Manitoba Music Teams Up with the Manitoba Arts Network for the Indigenous Artist Development Program at Manitoba Showcase 2019

For the second year in a row, Manitoba Music’s Indigenous Music Development Program and the Manitoba Arts Network have teamed up for the Indigenous Artist Development Program (IADP). Five emerging Indigenous artists from Manitoba are set to participate in the program taking place October 24-27 at Manitoba Showcase 2019 in Gimli.

This year’s participants include Gator Beaulieu, Kennie Henderson (Low Budget Rock Star), Kristen McKay, Mitchell Mozdzen, and Phoenix Traverse.

Over three days the artists will work with music mentors Jace Martin and Desiree Dorion to learn more about the ins and outs of the music industry including marketing, touring, recording, writing, and networking. They will also attend live performance showcases of artists from across Canada, perform at open mics, and have a chance to showcase their music to other artists and industry professionals.

Desiree Dorion is a multi-award-winning country music artist based in Dauphin, Manitoba. Hot off showcases in Nashville, Vancouver and Toronto,  she’s in the midst of promoting and touring with singles from her upcoming fifth album.

Based in Six Nations, Ontario R&B/blues artist Jace Martin has taken home many awards for his music. Signed with The Darren Ross Agency, he’s played alongside big names like Jonny Lang, Derek Miller, and Jeff Healey. His latest single “Free to Fly” can be heard on more than 150 radio stations worldwide and hit the Top 40 on US Radio Charts.

The IADP is a unique opportunity for up and coming, entry-level Indigenous artists, bands, songwriters and musicians to receive guidance, make connections, and learn about the workings of contact events like Manitoba Showcase.