Schedule

Born in 2014, The Duvets (A Cover Band) have opened up a new genre on the East Shore, one that might be called, “Wannabe Rock Stars, Meeting Their Dreams.” The band does this by providing an arena for “never-befores” (and, over the years, a few part time singers) to pick up the mic and rock out to their favorite music. A rotating ensemble of singers has nervously graced the stage over the past four years at three different concert events, backed by an impressive group of local musicians, the regular heart beat of which is the Fukushima-Rael family. This family of musicians and their friends encourage the hatchling singers and give them an opportunity many have never had before.

With a thunderous sound, Heavy Airship descends on the Kootenay region of British Columbia like a storm coming in from the Misty Mountain. In just a short time the Nelson-based Led Zeppelin tribute has gained a faithful following in the area and has shared the stage with the likes of Dr. Hook and the legendary BC/DC. Recreating the classic sound of Led Zeppelin, Heavy Airship consists of Craig Thiessen on vocals, Gus Dixon on guitar, Quillan Hanley on bass guitar and Eddie Thomas on drums.

Velle & Kootenay Soul has a powerful and unique sound that is bold and imaginative with influences that span the last 75 years of contemporary popular music. Her music has been described as retro, roots and soul. A bold songstress from the Central Kootenay in British Columbia (Creston, BC), Velle has toured internationally with previous acts. She captivates the audience with her unique voice – silky and velvety, raspy and sultry. With unbridled energy, she commands and transports the audience to the jazz clubs of New York and the back alleys of New Orleans.

Planetary gongs set the stage for this therapeutic sound healing meditation. Their rich overtones and undertones send waves of vibrations through the air. Unpredictable, without a regular pattern of beats, the mind is unable to track, or hold on to control and has to surrender into this world of sound. Relax and listen to these cosmic tones as they penetrate deeply into the body, releasing blockages and restoring balance. These tones are familiar and promote a sense of coming home, a returning to the cosmic sea, to that place of oneness, when there was no separation. It is from here that deep healing occurs on all levels. Theresa Lee and William Morris are from the Kootenay Sound Healing Centre here on the East Shore of Kootenay Lake near Riondel BC. William Morris, PhD, is a musician, author and medical astrologer. His record, Helios Attunement has been used in clinics world-wide. He produces sound healing scapes that weave medical astrology, with the sounds of the cosmos, plants, and various other instruments including flute and synthesizers. He is published in the areas of medical astrology, herbal medicine and acupuncture. Theresa Lee is a senior faculty instructor for the Acutonics® Institute of Integrative Medicine. Her unique and extraordinary way with gongs leads people on deep transformative journeys. She uses her wisdom of astrology and Chinese medicine, her intuition and compassion to bring sound currents into people’s lives in ways that heal wounds and dissolve isolation. The synergy of this dynamic duo has taken things to a whole new level.

Ashley Laframboise’s poems have been featured in various magazines across Canada, including Open Minds Quarterly and Elephant Journal. She is the writer of three books of poetry, one of which was released earlier this year (Winter Won’t Promise Magic). She lives, works, and studies in Nelson, and has hopes of teaching English at the secondary level in the Kootenays next year.

Dr. Duncan Grady’s professional experience includes over 20 years of post secondary education and 36 years of psychotherapy in addictions, trauma, death and dying. He has a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and a Doctorate of Divinity. He is an elder of the Circle of Indigenous Nations Society, West Kootenays, BC. He currently co-leads retreats, works with communities impacted by lateral violence and drug overdose and death and provides training and consultation using western and non-western approaches to health, well-being, spirituality, trauma, dying and death. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From grades 2 - 5, the Crawford Bay Elementary School Drummers have been gathering to learn and play traditional medicine songs for the past three years as part of their school's Aboriginal Education Program. The kids have chosen three songs for their performance: A Women's Warrior Song, A Water Song which was taught by a member of the Lower Kootenay Band, and The Humble Song. With devotional respect to the creation of all things, these songs are offered to you. Names of the drummers: Asha Dakota Indira Sophie Nesta Alice Precia Cecelia Christina Johanna Sarah

Rooted in the Afro-Latin soul of cumbia music, MNGWA (pronounced Ming-wah) blends elements of psych rock, surf, reggae, salsa, and hip hop into the polyrhythmic pot. With 8 members from across North America and Europe, the Vancouver ensemble invites all earthlings to join in the sonic frenzy!

Buffalo Stompers are an Aboriginal performance group born and raised on Kootenay Lake.They descend from Okanagan Nations Syilx, Metis and European settlers. They have danced at Pow Wows, trained in traditional native dance, classical dance (ballet, contemporary, hip hop), theatre and mixed arts. The two oldest have completed post secondary education in the arts and all teach traditional dance at public schools throughout the Kootenays. Recently they have started choreographing a fusion of their traditional dances with other dance disciplines to create a more modern reflection of Aboriginal Youth.

Named one of the ‘Top 10 Artists to Watch’ by CBC Music, Iskwé (which means ‘woman’ in her native language) is fostering an unmistakable sound that weaves together her Irish and Cree/Dené roots with poignant politically charged lyrics, dark soulful R&B rhythms, electronic flourishes, and trip hop breakbeats. Bridging cross-cultural aesthetics while exploring her own struggle to both fit into and breakaway from modern Western archetypes has been an important part of Iskwé’s artistic vision since the release of her self-titled debut album in late 2013. Her debut single “Nobody Knows,” which was produced by Juno Award nominees The Darcys and is currently being featured in the Netflix series Between, captivated audiences by turning a stark spotlight on the more than 1200 missing and murdered Indigenous women here in Canada.

My Son the Hurricane is a brass infused funk beast. No dance floor is safe. Hailing from Niagara/Toronto, the perennial festival closers and dance floor inciters mix New Orleans style grooves with funk, jazz and hip hop. Bolstered by a giant horn section and the well-oiled rhythm players, charismatic emcee Jacob Bergsma and charmingly sassy vocalist Sylvie Kindree drive the show, creating a spectacle of sound, and challenging the crowd to keep up to their collective energy. My Son the Hurricane has “stood out like a sore, yet extremely talented thumb at every show they’ve played” (Pulse Niagara), and become revered for their live performances.

The Oot n’ Oots make kids music that is, to quote Jerry Garcia, not for kids only. Drawing on diverse influences from the history of rock n’ roll, this is a band with chops, soul, and swagger. Their original songs are wildly imaginative, brimming with humour and inspiration. The band is fronted by 11-year-old vocalist Ruth Cipes with her dad Ezra (vocals, guitar) and uncles Ari (vocals, guitar), Gabe (vocals, bass), and Matthew (vocals, drums). Ruth’s voice has been described as having “the smoky sounds of a jazz chanteuse” and “the earnestness of a1960s folk singer.” Ruth trades lead vocal duties with Ari, who has a melodic tenor and cache of silly voices and characters.

Prosad is a multi-instrumentalist and singer who has travelled the world sharing his unique blend of sitar, guitar, reggae and world music. Inspired by legends like George Harrison, Prosad seeks to create a spiritual vibration in the mainstream music of his generation by blending Indian instruments with the western influences of rock, reggae, folk and blues. On stage, Prosad is far outnumbered by his musical instruments but he brings them all together with looping: recording guitar, bass, sitar, flute, didgeridoo and more while soloing and singing over his spontaneous creations. He has performed in New Zealand, Australia, India, Holland, Paris, Portugal, Italy, Hawaii and many other countries. During his travels, Prosad has collaborated with great artists like Grammy Award winner Chris Berry, Australian legend Xavier Rudd (on his album Spirit Bird) and many others.

Stephen Fearing’s music embodies a fierce intelligence, a haunting candor, and a steady-handed pursuit of fleeting beauty. He exudes an abiding love for his craft and a respect for his audience that is reflected in two Juno awards and a touring circuit that includes festival stages and concert halls across Canada, Europe and The United States. A beguiling teller of tales and a singularly intense instrumentalist, Fearing is an alluring entertainer – heartbreaking, expansive and full of mirth - with a clear, honorable voice that lifts you out into his wide world and “brings you back home to yourself”.

A masterful songwriter collects life's experiences and artfully turns them into songs that capture the imagination of a listener. Declan O’Donovan is that songwriter, that contemporary troubadour who utilizes a broad palate of voice and piano to tell intriguing stories through the music he creates. Produced by Jean Massicotte (Patrick Watson, Lhasa, Adam Cohen), Broken Sky, was recorded at Studio Masterkut in Montreal. “Jean gave my songs a landscape to live in and explore. He brought with him a sound and an approach that gave every note warmth and direction, and he gracefully coaxed out performances from everyone involved that at once made the songs both grounded and unrestrained.” Featured among the many outstanding musicians on Broken Sky are Brad Barr of The Barr Brothers on electric and acoustic guitars, as well as Joe Grass of the Patrick Watson band on pedal steel, electric and nylon-string guitars.

Petunia & The Vipers play several tours a year while Petunia is not touring on solo or duo missions. The full band is typically a five piece, however a violinist is added when required, or when other accompanists are unable to play. The Vipers play in various other projects and are well known through their efforts. Guitarist Stephen Nikleva and Lap Steel player Jimmy Roy are former Ricochets, of Ray Condo and the Ricochets, while Patrick Metzger plays bass with several projects, including a bluegrass band led by some-time violinist Kathleen Nisbet.

Hosted by Starbelly founder David Kayle Johnston. All levels welcome.

Bill Bourne, Lester Quitzau and Madagascar Slim explore styles of songwriting and guitar playing from 3 different continents.

Erica Dee has been touring the world as a professional singer for over a decade. Deeply rooted in Jazz, she weaves improvisation & Soul into a variety of different genres of music. Drawing from her own life and passions, Erica has created a unique experience in the form of a 90-120 minute workshop, using practices and activities that focus on using mind, body & spirit for a new way of vocalizing. With the influence of Bobby McFerrin’s Voicestra, Traditional East Indian singing, Hip-Hop, R&B, and her studies with Laura Landsberg at Selkirk Music College, Erica provides a soul-opening workshop for all levels of individuals wanting to explore creative expression using the voice & the body. Taking you through a journey, she includes a guided meditation, stretching, breathing exercises, vocal techniques, tone refinement, rhythm structure, harmonizing, dance and more! This is a fun, open, and safe way to create with your voice, while obtaining new information on how to sing and how to improvise. You will leave this workshop feeling open and inspired with new knowledge and techniques to carry on singing and expanding your vocal capabilities. Please Join Erica Dee & Sing for Your Soul!

We will go over some basics in strumming and dive into the first family of chords we learn on uke. After establishing some practice exercises, we’ll jump into a few songs and strum, strum, strum (and sing). Brian Kalbfleisch is a Nelson based musician and artist. He has instructed ukulele at the Rossland Acoustic Music Camp, Selkirk College, and teaches private lessons in groups and one-on-one. He performs regularly in Nelson solo and with a variety of duos and trios; is the front man of The Devils You Don’t and plays keys in Dirt Floor. He has also worked with Aspen Switzer, Wholesome Jones, The Handsome Devils, and The James Lamb Band.

Melissa sees herself as a movement alchemist, at home with exploring the inner workings of the body, mind and spirit. Infusing aspects from various schools of yoga, dance, and chi gong, she creates a flavor of yoga that deeply energizes, opens the heart, and hears the calling of the Self. With nearly two decades of yoga studies, 700+ hours teacher training, Melissa’s quest of holistic alignment, and personal evolution, inspires a safe space where all levels are supported and welcomed with love. “Om Shanti!” Sarah Calvert: Music Sarah will be performing live music; chants and mantras with loops, grooves and harmonies that will encourage you to move your body, and still your mind. She and Melissa will create a class designed to increase your awareness and flexibility, with lush soundscapes to help take you on the journey into yourself.

The Star Belly Craft area is a place where imagination bursts. The ingredients range from beach combed rocks, bark and sticks to community donated items to bedazzled stickers and recycled paints. Flowers, willow crowns, wands and noise makers are created to participate in the amazing parade Sunday. Looking forward to another fun Star Belly Jam!

Gemma Luna is an artist of many hats with belly dance as a long time love. She’s been teaching and performing for many years, and for the last five years has been teaching weekly classes from fall through spring in Nelson and the Slocan Valley.

RICK SCOTT is an award winning singer/ songwriter/ actor who combines music and laughter in lively, participatory concerts for all ages, and is a leading proponent of the Appalachian mountain dulcimer, known by kids around the world as “The Electric Snowshoe”. With over 35 years of performing, 18 albums, & many projects in many countries, his gift for combining wacky humour and poignant human commentary has earned him a devoted following from all ages. His seven children’s recordings have sold over 90,000 copies and won numerous kudos including three Juno nominations, Parents’Choice, Family Choice, NAPPA Gold, iParenting Media,, West Coast Music, Pacific Music Industry, Canadian Music and Children’s Music Web Awards. Of course, Rick is an integral member, along with Sheri Ulrich and Joe Mock, of the legendary folk trio Pied Pumpkin, who pioneered independent, rogue folk music in BC in the 70’s, touring nationally and selling 30,000 LP’s from the stage.

Buffalo Stompers are an Aboriginal performance group born and raised on Kootenay Lake.They descend from Okanagan Nations Syilx, Metis and European settlers. They have danced at Pow Wows, trained in traditional native dance, classical dance (ballet, contemporary, hip hop), theatre and mixed arts. The two oldest have completed post secondary education in the arts and all teach traditional dance at public schools throughout the Kootenays. Recently they have started choreographing a fusion of their traditional dances with other dance disciplines to create a more modern reflection of Aboriginal Youth. In this workshop, the Buffalo Stompers will demonstrate and teach several traditional dances, then lead the group in the round dance.

Sheilagh Lane has enchanted audiences as a puppeteer and storyteller for over 30 years. She has performed in Tenerife, Ibiza, Glastonbury Festival, children’s theatres and schools in London England. She has performed at birthday parties, school fund raising events as well as summer and street festivals in the Kootenays over the last 17 years. Age old tales, told through puppetry, spark the seeds of imagination and awaken within the child-wonder, magic and humour. Using a variety of puppet styles and accessing stories from many cultures, Sheilagh’s fascinating voice breathes life into her puppets. For the past 13 years she has run Starseed Kindercottage, where her teaching skills and care for her students has inspired children and parents alike.

Morning Wiggles is designed for little ones that like to wake early and start the day with a drum-roll! Bring your kids along to this informal and fun music and movement workshop and enjoy a range of activities together, including songs, stories, instrument exploration and playing, group dances and opportunities for active music listening. Suitable for kids from newborn through age 6 to attend with a loving caregiver/s. All styles of participation are welcome, from quiet observers to those who like to jump in feet first and sing at the top of their lungs! Ellie Reynolds has been teaching music and movement to young children on the East Shore and further afield, for the past 5 years. A trained Kindermusik Educator, Library programs facilitator, and singer, she loves to share her passion for song, rhythm, rhyme and the joy and learning that comes so naturally to young children. From newborn babies to school age, it's amazing to watch the musical growth and development in children, especially if they are fortunate enough to grow up in an environment with lots of opportunities to sing, make noise and move their bodies to music. Ellie truly believes that all children are born musical, and music touches us all. She is also mother to three young children of her own and they all enjoy singing too (especially in the bath). She hopes to meet you and your kiddos over in the children's area during the Morning Wiggles workshops!

Innovative and inspiring, Dixie Star Storytelling fires the imagination of children and grown-ups alike with its innovative and interactive shows. The young company evokes a fantastical world through words, music, movement, and playful props, and knows how to get the audience involved in creating the magic. Lisa brings the stories and dance, while Tim brings the music and song, and together they weave together a beautiful interactive show grounded in universal truths.

Mainstreams uses a Stream Trailer for teaching stream dynamics and the importance of riparian vegetation. We teach about the impacts of different kinds of land use on streams. The Stream Trailer comes loaded with aquarium sand and a self-contained reservoir. We demonstrate erosion by carving different kinds of stream channels in the sand to see the effects of different flow conditions and the impacts of different kinds of land use. Key concepts covered in Stream Trailer lessons include: Watersheds – Where do streams come from? Riparian Areas – how important is stream bank vegetation? Bank stability – What is erosion? Culverts – Culvert size is important! Bios: Ayla Bennett lives with her family in Fernie, BC. She is passionate about conserving and exploring our beautiful mountains, free-flowing rivers and wild spaces. Ayla strives to empower her fellow community members to care for their watersheds and feels community-based water monitoring projects and citizens have an important role to play in guiding decision-making. Ayla works with environmental non-profit groups including Wildsight, the Elk River Alliance and Mainstreams Environmental Society. She holds a BSc of Earth Science and has been an environmental educator since 2011. Kim Urbaniak has a MA in Environmental Education and Communications, and a varied background in community engagement, program development, and volunteer management. New to the Kootenays, Kim brings with her over 10 years of experience leading programs for all ages, and a passion for connecting people with the natural world

Mainstreams uses a Stream Trailer for teaching stream dynamics and the importance of riparian vegetation. We teach about the impacts of different kinds of land use on streams. The Stream Trailer comes loaded with aquarium sand and a self-contained reservoir. We demonstrate erosion by carving different kinds of stream channels in the sand to see the effects of different flow conditions and the impacts of different kinds of land use. Key concepts covered in Stream Trailer lessons include: Watersheds – Where do streams come from? Riparian Areas – how important is stream bank vegetation? Bank stability – What is erosion? Culverts – Culvert size is important! Bios: Ayla Bennett lives with her family in Fernie, BC. She is passionate about conserving and exploring our beautiful mountains, free-flowing rivers and wild spaces. Ayla strives to empower her fellow community members to care for their watersheds and feels community-based water monitoring projects and citizens have an important role to play in guiding decision-making. Ayla works with environmental non-profit groups including Wildsight, the Elk River Alliance and Mainstreams Environmental Society. She holds a BSc of Earth Science and has been an environmental educator since 2011. Kim Urbaniak has a MA in Environmental Education and Communications, and a varied background in community engagement, program development, and volunteer management. New to the Kootenays, Kim brings with her over 10 years of experience leading programs for all ages, and a passion for connecting people with the natural world

Yoga Workshop with Lisa Sars A heart based yoga workshop focused on introducing or re-acquainting students with the mystical world of hatha yoga. Featuring the music of Kira Willey kids become Trees, Mountains, Birds and Animals while expressing themselves through dance. It all comes together in a beautiful guided end relaxation. Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle. Lisa is an artist dedicated to sharing her gifts with students in hopes of inspiring them to become kinder and more body conscious people in the world. This passion towards teaching has lead her down the road of working in a myriad of contexts. She has taught in community centres and yoga studios and has been awarded grants from Artstarts to work in local Elementary Schools. She is a storyteller who brings fantastical tales to life in festivals around BC. Lisa has 10 years experience of storytelling, 29 years of dance education and 7 years of on-going yogic studies. She enjoys helping children uncover the beauty inside and around themselves.

Innovative and inspiring, Dixie Star Storytelling fires the imagination of children and grown-ups alike with its innovative and interactive shows. The young company evokes a fantastical world through words, music, movement, and playful props, and knows how to get the audience involved in creating the magic. Lisa brings the stories and dance, while Tim brings the music and song, and together they weave together a beautiful interactive show grounded in universal truths.

This year Startbelly Jam will host a teen tipi, a youth friendly retreat to chill and hangout, meet other teens, play card games, participate in challenges and earn prizes, all while enjoying the festival vibes. The space will be "lightly supervised," to ensure a fun, safe and inclusive environment and will be closed for the night at dusk.

In this workshop we will cover a variety of basic moves that will introduce you to the fabulous world of poi. We will start by using 1 poi and learn how to move around and with the poi. Together we are going to play with a series of transitions such as, weaves, turns, and stalls. Poi is an ancient art form that will help you improve hand eye coordination, flexibility and upper body strength. Shawna “The Hulagan" has been teaching the art of hoop dance for 5 years, sharing the love at festivals and events around the Alberta Rockies and B.C. She also hosts local workshops, hoop gatherings and Flow Jamz in the Nelson community. Recently she went on tour teaching hooping all around the Kootenays and continues to spread the love of the plastic circle.

Monitor Sorriso (Justin Miller) has trained capoeira out of Calgary, Alberta for close to 15 years. Justin has traveled throughout the world attending events and workshops to grow his capoeira. Teaching classes throughout the city, he is constantly striving to grow the capoeira community and share his passion and energy for this amazing art form. CAPOEIRA (Ca-poh-eh-ra) is a form of martial art that combines self-defense with music and acrobatics. It was developed in Brazil over a period of about 400 years with its roots stretching all the way back to Africa. At first glance, Capoeira looks like a choreographed dance between two people because it is played to music and the game is a seamless combination of circular movements. To those who train, Capoeira is a game of questions and answers, call and response. It is a dialogue between two players where movements such as kicks, esquivas, and floreios, represent the words of the language. The challenge lies not only in the ability to form fluid sentences with these movements, but to form them in such a way that they respond to the “sentences” being formed by your opponent. In this workshop I will teach you some capoeira songs to which we will sing together, creating the space for the magic to happen. We will also go through a brief warm up and mobility practice and dabble in some acrobatics. After that I will teach you a sequence of capoeira movements so you can have your own small, flowing, capoeira game in the roda (wheel). Let's play! Vamos Jogar!

Creative quick thinking on the spot. - A rhythm/beat is created from scratch, using beatboxing or a simple one can be chosen from a list and played over speakers. - Once the beat is chosen the timer starts (one minute) - The participant is shown a new flashcard every ten seconds and must string together the words creatively before the timer runs out. - At the end of each session the timer starts over and new flash cards and a new challenger is selected.

“... When you think about a bass player with expressive power, with exemplary rhythmic sense and creative imagination, you think Gabo Gonzalez. " El Groove Capital is a unique sound from Mexico City, mixing rhythms of Mexico, Brazil, Spain, E.U., and Cuba. It fuses styles like Funk, Jazz, Son, Rumba Flamenca, House and Samba, with the special signature of the bass as the leading instrument.

Lemon Bucket Orkestra is a guerilla-punk-balkan-folk-brass band massive like no other. Tracing their genesis back to the streets of Toronto, the original quartet of busking troubadours quickly amassed a battalion of like-minded musical souls and the full-blown, dozen plus strong Orkestra was born. The multi award winning ensemble has been heralded as a groundbreaking, genre-bending phenomenon by the Canadian and international media alike and over the past 8 years they have performed on streets and stages around the world, leaving a trail of new friends and dedicated fans in their wake.

Tri-Continental is a collaborative evolution that fuses the talents of three wonderful guitar-players, singers and songwriters. There are no musical boundaries present in this one-of-a-kind blues/folk/world music mélange. Bill Bourne, Lester Quitzau and Madagascar Slim present a truly unique and critically acclaimed sound that is a great success in terms of soulfulness and presence, intensity and atmosphere. Bourne, Quitzau and Slim are in their own rights well-recognized and respected artists with successful solo careers. They are indeed major players in the Canadian roots music scene who have individually and collectively received 4 Juno awards and 10 nominations. Together as Tri-Continental, something very special and magical happens with the grand improvisor, the kidnapper of the blues, and the inventor and promoter of the new universal sound.

After Funk is a fun filled, soul driven, funk-rock explosion. Hailed as “The grooviest band north of the border” (Live for Live Music), the Toronto based funk family have been blazing a trail through the North American music scene leaving only happy hearts and dancing feet in their wake. The combination of Yanick Allwood (keyboards & vocals), Jaime Rosenberg (drums), Justin Bontje (bass) and Phil Tessis (guitar) results in an infectiously fun show, as well as virtuosity and beauty that will challenge your musical mind. After Funk’s sound and hard work has not gone unnoticed; being selected as the Electric Forest’s Instrumental Forester in 2014 earned them two sets at the festival and they have served as support for Walk Off The Earth, Lettuce, Snarky Puppy, Dumpstaphunk, TAUK and more.

RICK SCOTT is an award winning singer/ songwriter/ actor who combines music and laughter in lively, participatory concerts for all ages, and is a leading proponent of the Appalachian mountain dulcimer, known by kids around the world as “The Electric Snowshoe”. With over 35 years of performing, 18 albums, & many projects in many countries, his gift for combining wacky humour and poignant human commentary has earned him a devoted following from all ages. His seven children’s recordings have sold over 90,000 copies and won numerous kudos including three Juno nominations, Parents’Choice, Family Choice, NAPPA Gold, iParenting Media,, West Coast Music, Pacific Music Industry, Canadian Music and Children’s Music Web Awards. Of course, Rick is an integral member, along with Sheri Ulrich and Joe Mock, of the legendary folk trio Pied Pumpkin, who pioneered independent, rogue folk music in BC in the 70’s, touring nationally and selling 30,000 LP’s from the stage.

Canada’s premier Greek rembetika ensemble. Rembetika is one of the pillars of modern Greek music which made the bouzouki the standard, and what many have called the “Greek blues” for its songs of heartache & hashish. Since 1996 the Hipsters have expanded the boundaries of Greek music, from Calgary, across Canada and all the way back to Greece.

A traditionalist at heart, Sarah Jane Scouten shows her signature flair for the roots of roots music. With respect for these roots, she writes from her own perspective, and rather than copying a style, only writes about what she knows profoundly. This songwriter hits hard and close to home, then laughs it off. Somewhat of an itinerant musician, spending much of her time on the road, Sarah Jane has called Bowen Island, Vancouver and Montreal home. She now lives in the neighbourhood of Parkdale in Toronto with two cats named after Cajun musicians.

On one end of the spectrum there are varieties of the Begonia which can be a dark, grievous, rough around the edges. And on the other end, a petite and elegant flower. In between, the plant attempts to harmonize its two poles, forming an array of varieties that each borrow from the delicate and the unseemly. It is in this same vein that Begonia (Alexa Dirks) finds herself, trying to find a balance.

Hosted by Starbelly founder David Kayle Johnston. All levels welcome.

Over 50 years dulcimer virtuoso Rick Scott has made up hundreds of songs that defy formula, stories of life and death seasoned with compassion and humour, for children and adults alike.

Jaash Singh (Lemon Bucket Orkestra), Ben Johnson (Rembetika Hipsters) and Robin Shackleton (Sylvan Temple World Instruments) presenting an interactive percussion workshop; Rhythms of the East (belly-dance percussion) as well as useful rhythms for the Giant Parade later on Sunday afternoon.

Greg Lostracco is a composer, producer and music teacher based out of Crawford Bay, BC. Drawing from a wide range of influences and experiences, Greg brings a vast musical vocabulary to any situation. Be it an electronic music production or composing for string quartet, Greg has the ability to synthesize contrasting musical elements in a way that is as creative as it is technical, and as intuitive as it is complex. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - “Greg Lostracco is one of the most modern time, top tier composers in Canada. He reaches where few even dare to fathom, into realms of genius while still being down to earth. He is one of my heroes and is also a tremendous teacher” - Nikko Forsberg - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - www.greglostracco.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Music Composition and Production- This workshop will be a live composition session, with a focus on rhythmic and harmonic compositional tools and processes, as well as some electronic music production techniques. This is an ideal workshop for anyone interested in understanding how music is made in a modern compositional context, and expanding their musical vocabulary with new and creative ideas.

Melissa Knoop - Yoga Instructor Melissa sees herself as a movement alchemist, at home with exploring the inner workings of the body, mind and spirit. Infusing aspects from various schools of yoga, dance, and chi gong, she creates a flavor of yoga that deeply energizes, opens the heart, and hears the calling of the Self. With nearly two decades of yoga studies, 700+ hours teacher training, Melissa’s quest of holistic alignment, and personal evolution, inspires a safe space where all levels are supported and welcomed with love. “Om Shanti!” Sarah Calvert: Music Sarah will be performing live music; chants and mantras with loops, grooves and harmonies that will encourage you to move your body, and still your mind. She and Melissa will create a class designed to increase your awareness and flexibility, with lush soundscapes to help take you on the journey into yourself.

Dance a wave of the 5 Rhythms; the circular & grounding energy of flowing, the shapes & form of staccato, and the release in chaos. Discover curiosity in lyrical and reverence in the spirit of stillness. As each of us surrenders to our own unique dance, we free the body, calm the mind, and connect with spirit to find inner peace. We go within, share with each other, build community, and free ourselves.

The Star Belly Craft area is a place where imagination bursts. The ingredients range from beach combed rocks, bark and sticks to community donated items to bedazzled stickers and recycled paints. Flowers, willow crowns, wands and noise makers are created to participate in the amazing parade Sunday. Looking forward to another fun Star Belly Jam!

Connect with ancient yogic practices and help yourself explore the peace and receptivity within. Using the practices of relaxation, movement and meditation you are invited to connect with your own inner messages. This one-hour class is an introduction to the sense of unity symbolized by the Ashram’s new Temple of Light, located just minutes from Crawford Bay. Facilitated by Yasodhara Ashram Teacher Rebecca Dale.

Gerald’s connection with the Tarot started over 40 years ago, when a friend in high school gave him a 1JJ Swiss Tarot deck as a birthday present. In the years since then, he’s collected a wide variety of Tarot decks & reference works, explored the history & symbolism of the cards, and done amateur readings for charity. This workshop will journey through the Tarot with a close reading of several versions of two cards (one each from the Major & Minor Arcana) drawn from some of the most popular, artistic, esoteric, and classic decks currently available.

Original stories as well as classic fairy tales over an acoustic musical setting.

Morning Wiggles is designed for little ones that like to wake early and start the day with a drum-roll! Bring your kids along to this informal and fun music and movement workshop and enjoy a range of activities together, including songs, stories, instrument exploration and playing, group dances and opportunities for active music listening. Suitable for kids from newborn through age 6 to attend with a loving caregiver/s. All styles of participation are welcome, from quiet observers to those who like to jump in feet first and sing at the top of their lungs! Ellie Reynolds has been teaching music and movement to young children on the East Shore and further afield, for the past 5 years. A trained Kindermusik Educator, Library programs facilitator, and singer, she loves to share her passion for song, rhythm, rhyme and the joy and learning that comes so naturally to young children. From newborn babies to school age, it's amazing to watch the musical growth and development in children, especially if they are fortunate enough to grow up in an environment with lots of opportunities to sing, make noise and move their bodies to music. Ellie truly believes that all children are born musical, and music touches us all. She is also mother to three young children of her own and they all enjoy singing too (especially in the bath). She hopes to meet you and your kiddos over in the children's area during the Morning Wiggles workshops!

Innovative and inspiring, Dixie Star Storytelling fires the imagination of children and grown-ups alike with its innovative and interactive shows. The young company evokes a fantastical world through words, music, movement, and playful props, and knows how to get the audience involved in creating the magic. Lisa brings the stories and dance, while Tim brings the music and song, and together they weave together a beautiful interactive show grounded in universal truths.

Mainstreams uses a Stream Trailer for teaching stream dynamics and the importance of riparian vegetation. We teach about the impacts of different kinds of land use on streams. The Stream Trailer comes loaded with aquarium sand and a self-contained reservoir. We demonstrate erosion by carving different kinds of stream channels in the sand to see the effects of different flow conditions and the impacts of different kinds of land use. Key concepts covered in Stream Trailer lessons include: Watersheds – Where do streams come from? Riparian Areas – how important is stream bank vegetation? Bank stability – What is erosion? Culverts – Culvert size is important! Bios: Ayla Bennett lives with her family in Fernie, BC. She is passionate about conserving and exploring our beautiful mountains, free-flowing rivers and wild spaces. Ayla strives to empower her fellow community members to care for their watersheds and feels community-based water monitoring projects and citizens have an important role to play in guiding decision-making. Ayla works with environmental non-profit groups including Wildsight, the Elk River Alliance and Mainstreams Environmental Society. She holds a BSc of Earth Science and has been an environmental educator since 2011. Kim Urbaniak has a MA in Environmental Education and Communications, and a varied background in community engagement, program development, and volunteer management. New to the Kootenays, Kim brings with her over 10 years of experience leading programs for all ages, and a passion for connecting people with the natural world

Mainstreams uses a Stream Trailer for teaching stream dynamics and the importance of riparian vegetation. We teach about the impacts of different kinds of land use on streams. The Stream Trailer comes loaded with aquarium sand and a self-contained reservoir. We demonstrate erosion by carving different kinds of stream channels in the sand to see the effects of different flow conditions and the impacts of different kinds of land use. Key concepts covered in Stream Trailer lessons include: Watersheds – Where do streams come from? Riparian Areas – how important is stream bank vegetation? Bank stability – What is erosion? Culverts – Culvert size is important! Bios: Ayla Bennett lives with her family in Fernie, BC. She is passionate about conserving and exploring our beautiful mountains, free-flowing rivers and wild spaces. Ayla strives to empower her fellow community members to care for their watersheds and feels community-based water monitoring projects and citizens have an important role to play in guiding decision-making. Ayla works with environmental non-profit groups including Wildsight, the Elk River Alliance and Mainstreams Environmental Society. She holds a BSc of Earth Science and has been an environmental educator since 2011. Kim Urbaniak has a MA in Environmental Education and Communications, and a varied background in community engagement, program development, and volunteer management. New to the Kootenays, Kim brings with her over 10 years of experience leading programs for all ages, and a passion for connecting people with the natural world

Innovative and inspiring, Dixie Star Storytelling fires the imagination of children and grown-ups alike with its innovative and interactive shows. The young company evokes a fantastical world through words, music, movement, and playful props, and knows how to get the audience involved in creating the magic. Lisa brings the stories and dance, while Tim brings the music and song, and together they weave together a beautiful interactive show grounded in universal truths.

Come out and learn a series of hula hoop tricks that all work together to make a super fun combo. We will explore a variety of moves including on body and off body hooping. Our main focus will be transitions that will help us move fluidly from one trick into the next. This workshop is designed to accommodate all skill levels of hoopers. Shawna "The Hulagan” has been teaching the art of hoop dance for 5 years, sharing the love at festivals and events around the Alberta Rockies and B.C. She also hosts local workshops, hoop gatherings and Flow Jamz in the Nelson community. Recently she went on tour teaching hooping all around the Kootenays and continues to spread the love of the plastic circle.