An indigenous female singer from the Anishinaabe community has unveiled a new symphonic piece titled “Granddaughter’s Song” in collaboration with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The 53-minute composition, co-created by singer-songwriter Shy-Anne Hovorka and pianist-composer Dr. Micah Pawluk, is deeply rooted in the Seven Grandfather Teachings and incorporates a mix of storytelling, music, and orchestral elements.
The work delves into themes of love, courage, humility, wisdom, respect, honesty, and truth, following the journey of a young Ojibwe girl as she discovers her identity, family, connection to the land, and spirituality under the guidance of her grandmother. Each of the Seven Grandfather Teachings is represented by animals, encapsulating the foundational principles of the Anishinaabe way of life.
Hovorka shared that the project aims to raise awareness about the significance of these sacred teachings and provide a platform for individuals, especially those not from the Indigenous community, to gain insights and understanding. Drawing inspiration from Hovorka’s personal experiences, the symphony chronicles the passage of Indigenous women in northwestern Ontario from childhood to adulthood, including their transition to urban centers like Thunder Bay for schooling.
Initially conceived as a chamber recital for Pawluk’s doctoral program at the University of Alberta, the project evolved over time into a full-fledged orchestral production. Despite living in different provinces, the collaborative effort between Hovorka and Pawluk during the recording process proved successful, with contributions from Indigenous and Métis musicians nationwide.
The inclusive nature of the project was highlighted by Hovorka, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous participation in the creation of the piece. The symphony, “Granddaughter’s Song,” is freely accessible on various streaming platforms and YouTube, intended for broad dissemination to encourage reflection, learning, and listening among diverse audiences.
The growth and scope of the project surpassed initial expectations, with gratitude expressed by Pawluk for the opportunity to be part of such a significant endeavor. The virtual conducting by Frédéric-Alexandre Michaud of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra and the collaborative efforts of studio producers and elders further enriched the production process.
