World Music & Arts Festival

We are fortunate out here on the west coast to have some of the world’s finest players from a range of global genres. Miguelito Valdes is one such luminary. Born in Cuba and now living in Victoria, Miguelito will be known to Harrison Festival audiences for performances here with Locarno, but his experience is massive, having begun his musical life at age 11 and then developed a career in music that saw him playing alongside many of Cuba’s top performers. Among the best known of these to Canadian audiences are the performers of the Buena Vista Social Club, including Ibrahim Ferrer. He is a master of the trumpet but also is a percussionist and singer, and will be joined on the piano and percussion for a set that will be sure to get folks up on their feet and swinging their hips.      

Inspired by her African heritage, la chanson française (French ballad), and American gospel, Kelly Bado creates music transcending cultural barriers, bringing audiences together in joy and hope. Born in the Ivory Coast, Kelly’s songwriting captures the beauty of the languages and rhythms she has encountered on her journey from Abidjan to Winnipeg. Collaborating with Grammy and Juno award-winning producers Brian West and Chin Injeti, her latest music blends traditional sounds with modern influences, creating a unique alchemy that sparks curiosity and a desire to explore traditional languages. Kelly’s dedication to her francophone and African heritage is evident in her work, as she strives to keep these cultures and languages vibrant for future generations.   

Powerhouse Cosmic Americana duo Minor Gold are award-winning songwriters Tracy McNeil (CAN) and Dan Parsons (AUS). Since releasing their critically acclaimed self-titled debut album in August 2023, the pair have navigated life on the road without missing a beat. Their sound echoes 70’s cosmic Americana with an easy charm and potent honesty, but it is the indeterminate perfection of how these two artists’ voices lock in together that hit right where the emotions live inside us. With dynamics ranging from the intense restraint of campfire intimacy through to open throttle abandon, Minor Gold move you – weaving masterful harmonies and deft guitar playing around unforgettable, stripped back performances.

Do-Si-Duo brings together Canadian fiddlers Shamma Sabir and Mark Sullivan in a vibrant mix of original and traditional tunes, rich vocals, and dynamic musical interplay inspired by the square dance move they’re named for. Shamma was raised in the Fraser Valley’s best known fiddle family, the Sabir Sisters, and has been performing and teaching fiddle since a young age. Mark is a multiple Grand Masters award winning fiddler, originally from Bowmanville, Ontario and now living in Abbotsford.

This is a special community dance featuring fiddlers Mark Sullivan and Shamma Sabir backed by Andy Hillhouse on guitar and called by Merrie Klazek. The dance will include square dances, contras, and other types of social dances. No experience necessary! All dances will be taught on the spot.