Ashley Bieniarz, Indigenous Music Program Coordinator
The Indigenous Music Development Program was launched in 2004 by Manitoba Music to support First Nation, Métis, and Inuit artists and music companies in developing sustainable careers in the music industry. The program delivers projects and services including training incubators, export showcases, and business accelerators in response to the needs of the industry as identified by a steering committee. Find out more at www.indigenousmusic.ca
Ashley is a Métis and Polish avant-pop artist, Kwiat, and produces the campus radio show, podcast, and songwriter’s circle Songsmiths. She has a Bachelor of Music in classical piano from the University of Manitoba and is a juror for the Polaris Music Prize, Prism Music Prize, FACTOR, and the Western Canada Music Awards. She is currently on the 101.5 UMFM Radio and Rainbow Trout Music Festival Board of Directors.
As you make plans in 2021 and relate it to when you began… What has changed most in how you approach your next project or business strategy? This may or may not be pandemic-related but, if so, what about pandemic is a challenge or opportunity?
The pandemic has really brought into focus the importance of connecting with communities, of reaching out and being present and compassionate, and recognizing artists and music workers as whole and complex people with lives and families to be nurtured and considered.
Recent or otherwise, is there an Indigenous film, TV program, book, play, music, or other artwork – that has resonated with you which you would encourage others to explore?
There are a lot of great books, videos, and links in Manitoba Music’s National Indigenous History Month Resources online at www.manitobamusic.com/news/read,article/8239.
What gave you the desire to pursue a career in the music industry and what in your process would you pass on as a tip to someone considering same?
I’ve always been passionate about sharing and creating music. Once I began pursuing a career as an artist, I learned very quickly about the disadvantages my peers were experiencing from being separated and isolated from larger industry cities in Canada. I became inspired to provide opportunities to spotlight and develop their craft. I wanted to be a voice from within the industry to advocate and make impactful changes for prairie-based and Indigenous artists. My advice for those who are also considering a career in the music industry is to look within yourself, determine your values and goals, and focus on them. This business can be challenging and discouraging, but as long as you always stay true to who you are and strive for what is important to you, you’ll always find where you’re meant to go.
The musical universe appears to be capable of infinite expansion. As opportunities for artists and audiences to connect grow in number, it doesn’t necessarily make it easier for one to find the other. What, in your view, is working best in this regard and/or what is in most need of improvement?
Building relationships with people and communities is the foundation of trust and that’s what leads to meaningful engagement in opportunities.
What past achievement of your organization are you most likely to cite as a success or what can you reveal you’re most excited by on the horizon?
Indigenous Music has just launched the “Madwewetoon” playlist on Spotify, which will feature a new playlist by guest curators every month. This month with curated by up-and-coming singer/songwriter Brandi Vezina and features Indigenous artists from across Turtle Island. “Madwewetoon” means “make some noise” in Anishinaabemowin, and was shared with us by Kimberly Mckay from Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation.
Photo Credit: Brendan McKay
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