How Canadian Artists are Using Music for Social Impact

Canada is a country of incredible differences across cultures, languages, abilities, geographies, and more: differences that create a vibrant national identity but also inequality and injustice, including a history of colonization that continues to harm Indigenous nations. In a contemporary era of increasing conflict and polarization, music might seem like a surprising entry point to social change. Yet, this presentation focuses not just on music, but on community music as a way to negotiate differences, bild community and work towards social change. Community music is participatory music making for artistic and social impacts, and Canadian musicians are on the vanguard in leading an incredible breadth of music projects in diverse communities across the country. Using video and stories from her research project Community Music in Canada, Dr. Yerichuk will show how Canadian musicians are using participatory music to create spaces of belonging and connection, to contribute to cultural reclamation and resurgence, and to develop artistry among diverse groups of people.