Kamloops, B.C. – The annual celebration of unity and reconciliation, ‘Music for the People – A Cultural Experience,’ recently won a Communitas Award for excellence in community service in the ‘Skills Based Community Service’ category. This acknowledgement highlights the event’s commitment and dedication to uniting Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices, fostering healing, and inspiring hope.
“This recognition means the world to me. Music for the People is about community and for the community,” shared Margit Bandura, co-founder of the event and singer-rhythm guitarist with the Margit Sky Project. “I hope Music for the People is remembered for bridging a gap between cultures musically and bringing the community together as one.”
The Communitas Awards is an international effort to recognize exceptional businesses, organizations, and individuals who selflessly give their resources for the benefit of their communities.
Music for the People was conceived in 2022 with a vision to have Indigenous and non-Indigenous performers come together in a shared celebration of culture, music, and storytelling. The event aims to foster harmony and reconciliation within the community, a mission that was deeply important to co-founder Rod "Little Sky" Bandura, who passed away in January of 2024.
Last year’s concert, which welcomed approximately 1,400 people from Kamloops and surrounding areas, honoured the legacy of Rod, acting as a bridge for those seeking connection and a rest from the world's challenges.
“Rod would be so happy and proud of receiving such a prestigious award that embodies the vision he had to make this world a better place through music,” added Margit. “I wish he was here to accept it with me, but I must continue telling his story through this event.”
While admission to the event was free, in keeping with the spirit of giving and Rod’s legacy, part of the donations received were given to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, a British Columbia-based organization that provides counselling, court support, information, referrals, and workshops, to Survivors.
Preparations for Music for the People 2025 are already underway, and the concert will once again feature both individual and collaborative performances from the Sage Hills Singers, Drummers, and Dancers, as well as the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra, local musicians, and the Margit Sky Project blending the talent and voices of Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists.
“Music For the People would not be able to run if the sponsors, musicians, artisans, and volunteers didn't all work together,” expressed Margit. “I am extremely grateful for the community support we’ve received and the ongoing encouragement from my friends and family. We can’t wait to announce more details for this year’s concert in the next few months, and welcome people to reach out of they are interested in becoming a sponsor.”
For an interview with Margit Bandura, contact:
Aleece Laird, Communications Liaison | aleece@amplifyinc.ca| 250.574.0221
About Music For The People – A Cultural Experience
Music For the People is a unique concert event bringing the voices, music, and artistry of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous people together for an unforgettable evening. The concert brings culture, music, artists, and communities together and is suitable for all ages. www.musicforthepeople.ca