Healing with Music
Healing with Music: A Celebration of Resilience and Unity at Pabineau First Nation
On September 28th, 2024, the Pabineau First Nation Pow-Wow Grounds became a place of harmony, remembrance, and healing as the community came together for the Healing with Music concert. This event was more than a musical gathering; it was a tribute to the strength and spirit of Indigenous people and a reminder of the vital role music plays in healing, honouring history, and connecting with one another.
In honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, this year’s concert featured a great lineup, including Robert Kryskzo and his powerful Thundersticks, Raymond Sewell, WOLF CASTLE, and the Hightide Blues Band. From the first note to the final beat, the music resonated deeply, creating an atmosphere of unity, reflection, and celebration.
The Power of Music in Indigenous Cultures
For Indigenous communities, music is more than entertainment—it is an essential part of identity and tradition. Historically, music has been a way to share stories, pass down knowledge, honour ancestors, and connect with the spirit world. Drumming, in particular, is central to many Indigenous ceremonies, as its beat mirrors the heartbeat of Mother Earth, creating a sacred connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. Songs and chants often embody wisdom, stories, and cultural values, serving as a bridge between generations.
Music also plays a vital role in community healing. Through rhythm, voice, and movement, individuals and communities come together to express shared pain, celebrate resilience, and find strength. Events like Healing with Music are a continuation of this tradition, offering a space for collective healing, honoring those we’ve lost, and celebrating the enduring strength of Indigenous culture.
A Day of Music, Unity, and Community
Starting at 1 PM, the Pow-Wow Grounds were filled with people from Pabineau First Nation and surrounding Chaleur Regions, ready to experience the transformative power of music. Hosted by Phyllis Grant and Chief Terry Richardson, the event welcomed everyone with open arms, free hotdogs, chips, drinks, and plenty of exciting giveaways, including merch prizes.
Robert Kryskzo’s Thundersticks set the tone, bringing energy and excitement to the stage. Following him, Raymond Sewell, WOLF CASTLE, and the Hightide Blues Band each took turns to share their unique sounds, blending traditional elements with contemporary styles that captivated the audience. From the soulful sounds of the blues to the powerful energy of Indigenous drumming, each performance was a reminder of music’s ability to move, heal, and unite.
Phyllis Grant’s heartfelt message with the reminder of the quote, “And a small voice whispers... they found us,” echoed throughout the event, capturing the spirit of the day. This phrase reminds us of the significance of Truth and Reconciliation, a time to acknowledge the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada, including the painful legacy of residential schools, and to honor the resilience and courage of Indigenous communities today.
Celebrating Truth and Reconciliation through Music
As part of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Healing with Music offered a space for reflection and celebration. Music, as it has done for centuries, created a pathway for healing, allowing individuals to express their experiences and emotions, find comfort, and honor those who came before. For attendees, it was a chance to come together in solidarity, acknowledging the past while looking forward with hope.
Strength in Unity
Sponsored by Canadian Heritage, Mi'gmaq Child and Family Services, and the Chief and Council, Healing with Music was a testament to the power of community support and unity. Events like these are vital for fostering a sense of belonging, pride, and resilience. They remind us that, together, we can create spaces for healing and celebration, preserving cultural traditions while building new connections and memories.
As the day drew to a close, attendees left with full hearts, carrying forward the spirit of healing, remembrance, and hope. Pabineau First Nation’s Healing with Music concert was a reminder that through music, we can honor our shared history, strengthen our bonds, and look forward to a future rooted in understanding and unity.
Thank you to all who joined us for this unforgettable day. Let’s continue to stand strong, celebrate our heritage, and find healing in our shared stories and songs. Strength in unity!
