A Musical Journey into the Heart

Renowned artist and cultural leader, Walter MacDonald White Bear, spirit name Wabus Muskwa, remarked to a room full of eager listeners who came out for CBC Calgary and the Calgary Public Library's sixth installment of Instrumental Stories.

As Walter stood up and played the first few notes on his flute, the audience leaned in, mesmerized by the warm yet haunting sound. The melodies filled the air.

Instrumental Stories offers an intimate and unique perspective for music enthusiasts, beginners and curious individuals, to delve into the history, culture and music of various communities and peoples. Every month, the audience is invited to experience a new genre, expanding their musical and cultural horizons.

On this warm April evening, the program explored the Cree cultural practice through the guitar, harmonica, drum and flute.

A self taught musician, Walter shared with Tarik Robinson, the host of CBC's Key of A, the meaning of his songs. 

A poignant song dedicated to his mother, a captivating ode celebrating the significance of magpies as custodians of the earth in Indigenous culture, and even a melodic tribute to the ever-changing seasons. Each of Walter's songs reveals a carefully crafted reflection of his own life experiences.

"I always had the ear for music. I guess I had a gift." Walter laughs when Tarik asks him how he learnt to play the guitar as he strums the strings.

While most of the instruments Walter played were familiar to the audience, there was one in particular that exudes a mesmerizing and evocative sound.

It's called the courting flute. Typically crafted from wood, the design is simple yet elegant. It features a long, slender body with six finger holes along its length. Walter shared a folklore where a young boy, unable to speak, used the flute to convey his affection for a girl residing in their village, thereby shedding light on the instrument's name. 

What also makes the instrument unique is that it creates an illusion of two flutes harmonizing together, despite being played by one musician. 

As Walter plays the courting flute, the notes flow effortlessly, creating a tranquil moment where one is transported to a realm of introspection. The audience, captivated by the melody, instinctively raised their phones, eager to capture and preserve that moment of serenity.

In between songs, Walter shared insights into the sacred teachings of the Medicine Wheel. 

With a voice that carried the weight of generations, he spoke of our deep connection to the earth, emphasizing the profound responsibility we hold as stewards of this planet. 

While the topic is serious, Walter always manages to intersperse his teachings with humour and references to Western movies such as The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, delicately reminding us the need to honour and protect what was given to us by mother nature.

As Walter played his final song with his guitar and harmonica, time seemed to stand still as the audience hung onto every note and syllable. 

Throughout the evening, the room became more than just a space filled with individuals. It was transformed into a gathering of a community united by a shared desire to listen, to learn, and to connect with something greater than ourselves.

Our next Instrumental Stories will be held on Thursday, May 25. Be ready to be treated to a musical journey where harpist Gianetta Baril will enchant you with the ethereal sounds of her harp.

Register here.