Purple Spirit Singers facts for kids
The Purple Spirit Singers is a group of Indigenous men who sing traditional songs. Brandon Barberstock, from the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, leads the group. They sing in different styles, like those heard at Pow wows or with hand drums. This group started when Indigenous students at Western University in London, Ontario, wanted to share songs, cultural lessons, and good energy. The group's name, Purple Spirit Singers, translates to Zhoomin-Innande Manitou Negamowaad in the Anishinaabemowin language.
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How the Purple Spirit Singers Began
In early 2015, Brandon Barberstock, who is the drum keeper and lead singer, was at a round dance event. This event was held at Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. Brandon shared his wish to have an Indigenous men's drum group on the Western University campus. Other students, Erik Mandawe and Jason George, felt the same way. Together, they decided to form the Purple Spirit Singers.
Sharing Culture Through Music
Since they started, the group has performed at many pow wows and community events. They have also appeared on television and led workshops to teach about Indigenous culture. The group has grown to include more members from the university and other communities. This was always their goal. The founding members wanted to share traditional teachings about culture and identity with their group and the wider community.
The Purpose of the Drum Group
The Heartbeat of Mother Earth
Drum groups in Indigenous communities play a very important role. They help pass down cultural teachings to younger generations. The big drum itself represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth. It reminds everyone of our strong connection to the land.
Songs for Every Occasion
The songs sung around the drum have many different purposes. Some are for ceremonies, like the Sun Dance. Others are for celebrations. Some songs are linked to specific cultural dances, such as the grass dance or fancy dance. For the Purple Spirit Singers, their main goal is to help community members learn more about Indigenous culture. They also want to create a positive and healthy space for everyone who gathers around the big drum.
Purple Spirit Singers Events
The Purple Spirit Singers have performed at many different places and events. Here are some of them:
- Munsee-Delaware Nation Pow Wow
- Oneida Nation of the Thames Long-term Care Seniors Home
- Various birthday celebrations in the community
- CTV Television Network Green Room at the Covent Garden Market in London, Ontario
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) rally in London, Ontario (2015)
- Kettle Point Pow Wow (2015)
- Stoney Point Memorial Pow Wow (2015)
- A special reception for Winona LaDuke, as part of the Indigenous Health & Well-being Initiative summer school
