School libraries to receive book on Master of the Métis Fiddle
- NC Raine | March 23, 2018
Every Library in three school divisions in Saskatchewan are receiving a book on master fiddler John Arcand and his contributions to Metis fiddle and Canadian culture.
Master of the Metis Fiddle, John Arcand: The Man, The Music, The Festival, is a brief account of Arcand's life as a prolific musician, having composed over 390 original songs on the fiddle, and as an ambassador of Metis fiddle, culture, and dance. The book is a being donated to schools by Affinity Credit Union (ACU), in partnership with Gabriel Dumont Publishing, to help create education for reconciliation.
“We were very happy when Gabriel Dumont (Institute) approached us about creating a book on our founder, and namesake, Mr. John Arcand”, said Angela Caron, Board member of the John Arcand Fiddle Fest and Principal of Westmount Community School.
“The creation of this resource and the opportunity to have it in all our schools is a great and invaluable resource. Here at Westmount, we're honoured,” she said.
ACU will donate a total of 157 copies of Master of the Metis Fiddle to Saskatoon Public Schools, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools and Prairie Spirit School Divisions.
“John Arcand has been a role model for so many,” said Lise deMoissac, ACU Chief Financial Officer. “Having this book as a resource for our teachers is a great way to educate students about Metis culture while recognizing the contributions that John has made.”
The donation of the book is another demonstration of ACU's commitment to reconciliation and their support of the preservation and sharing Metis and First Nations culture.
“The Truth and Reconciliation Call to Action 633 speaks to building capacity for intercultural understanding, empathy, and mutual respect. It also speaks to promote the growth of First languages and First cultures,” said Brad Nichol, Superintendent Prairie Spirit School Division.
“At Prairie Spirit, we believe in building relationships with all students, and the additions of this book each of our 47 schools will support relationship building and cultural understanding. These are important values in our schools.”
The Gabriel Dumont Institute and ACU are also supporters of the John Arcand Fiddle Fest, which takes place at Arcand's acreage on the second weekend of August.