Using music as a lens, Voices of Canada explores Canada’s rich cultural diversity, featuring stories and songs from Canadian Indigenous artists. Join us for a special edition of Voices of Canada in partnership with the Canadian Folk Music Awards highlighting the songs and stories of past and present Indigenous nominees. Through live performances and a panel discussion guests will connect with the stories and songs of Canadian musicians from diverse backgrounds, gaining a deeper understanding of the nation’s cultural fabric. Using music as a lens, Voices of Canada explores Canada’s rich cultural diversity, featuring stories and songs from Canadian artists. ABOUT THE ARTISTS MODERATOR: PAT CHESSELL Pat Chessell is a Vancouver-based musician known for his powerhouse rhythm guitar playing, heartfelt songwriting, and a voice rooted in Celtic tradition. A Canadian Folk Music Award nominee, Pat has opened for artists like Jim Byrnes, The Paperboys, and Tegan and Sara. His music blends storytelling, history, and modern energy - delivering a show that’s as honest as it is engaging. Pat is a member of the Canadian Folk Music Awards Board of Directors. KYLE MCKEARNEY Kyle McKearney is redefining Americana / Folk, weaving soulful storytelling with gritty, roots-inspired instrumentation into a genre-defying sound that makes him one of Canada’s most captivating voices. Rooted in the country and bluegrass music of his childhood, Kyle's artistry is deeply shaped by his Métis heritage. Kyle McKearney is nominated for the 2026 Folk Award for Contemporary Singer of the Year. TROY KOKOL Award-winning Métis creator Troy Kokol is a premier Canadian songwriter, producer, and animator with 250+ credits in music and film. A SOCAN Award recipient and multi-time CCMA nominee, Troy’s rare versatility spans genres and mediums, cementing his place as a leading voice in the Canadian music industry. WYATT C. LOUIS With Chandler , Wyatt C. Louis announces themselves to the world. A gorgeous, textured and rousing debut album, it sees the nêhiyaw (Plains Cree) singer-songwriter deliver a masterclass through emotive, delicate and tender songs exploring the minutiae of love and life. Wyatt C. Louis is nominated for the 2026 Folk Awards for Indigenous Songwriter of the Year, and New Artist of the Year.