Gather and warm yourself by the fire. Through sublime music, spoken word, and the sounds of nature, trailblazing cellist-composer Cris Derksen invites us into a world of stories about humanity’s connection to the earth. Featuring nearly a dozen musicians on stage, Derksen’s interactive and innovative piece Warming By the Fire, along with a newly expanded version of her acclaimed work Spiderbeing, celebrates the rich tradition of Indigenous narrative expression. These evocative chamber works weave together strings, brass, and timpani, as well as moments of light-hearted, active audience participation — creating a truly interactive, community-centred experience. A treat for the senses and a beautiful tribute to Indigenous storytelling traditions, this immersive concert promises to be unforgettable.

Artists:

• Cris Derksen (1981–2026)cello & composer
• Chamberfest Ensemble

Programme:

Cris Derksen (b. 1981)
ᐊᐊᐧᓱᐃᐧᐣ Awasowin – Warming by the Fire
            Kotawe ᑯᑕᐁ | Start a fire
            Paskwâskitew ᐸᐢᑳᐧᐢᑭᑌᐤ | The fire throws sparks
            Pahkisimôtâhk ᐸᐦᑭᓯᒨᑖᕁ | West where the sun sets
            Macâcimowin ᒪᒑᒋᒧᐃᐧᐣ | An evil story
            Paskwâskitew ᐸᐢᑳᐧᐢᑭᑌᐤ | The fire throws sparks
            Pewaninakwan ᐯᐊᐧᓂᓇᑲᐧᐣ | It looks like a storm coming in the distance
            Piyêsiwiw ᐱᔦᓯᐃᐧᐤ | It is a thunderstorm
            Waseskwan ᐊᐧᓭᐢᑲᐧᐣ | The sky is clearing (after a storm)           

C. Derksen
Spiderbeing (expanded version)