Drumming Alive: Two High Schools, One Powerful Cultural Journey
November 7, 2024
Two Winnipeg School Division high schools are breathing new life into Indigenous cultural traditions through their remarkable drumming groups: the "Oshkii Ogitchidaa" (Young Warriors) at Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute (DMCI) and the “Good Heart Elk Singers” at Tec Voc High School.
Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute's first traditional drum group, "Oshkii Ogitchidaa, Young Warriors," started in January 2024 with 12 students.
"Drumming has an incredible power to transform lives. We've seen shy students, some struggling with anxiety, blossom into confident performers," said Shawn Sigurdson, DMCI Indigenous support teacher.
"In a short time, they've gone from never touching a drum to performing in front of thousands. We're proud to see them share their knowledge and inspire others."
DMCI's Young Warriors have taken leadership roles, choosing to speak at school assemblies, volunteering with early years students at a neighbouring kindergarten school, and teaching other students about what they have learned from this experience while encouraging them to take part in different traditions that celebrate the Indigenous culture.
Shawn Sigurdson and Leigh Brown, the Indigenous support teachers, have been guiding and supporting the drummers during their lunch hour practices.
Masen Spence, a Grade 10 student at DMCI, reflects on his transformation: "At the start of the Young Warriors drum group, I was scared about performing in front of people, but then the other drummers helped me to be comfortable and proud to be a part of this group. Drumming has made my stress and anxiety much better. I shouldn't be worried about singing in front of others; I need to let my voice be heard, and I feel proud to be here."
Grade 12 DMCI student Trayden Maple shares the deeper meaning: "Being a part of a traditional drum group has built my confidence in singing and practicing my cultural traditions. Drumming supports me by making me feel like I'm encouraging other Indigenous students to be a part of their culture and reclaim some of the traditions we lost."
"I have always been involved in my culture since I was a kid. I feel proud to share our culture with others who are not familiar or who have not grown up in our traditions," said Cory Kiyewakan, a DMCI student,
The drumming group will be performing at various events in 2025. he significant events where the Young Warriors have already performed are:
- Winnipeg School Division Pow Wow - June 2024
- Truth and Reconciliation Ceremony - September 2024
- Canada Life Centre Performance - October 2024
- Upcoming: - Remembrance Day Ceremony - November 2024
- DMCI Graduation - June 2025
Tec Voc High School’s Good-Heart Elk Singers
The rhythmic beat of drums echoes through the halls and school grounds of Tec Voc High School as students from the Good Heart Elk Singers revive Indigenous cultural traditions on Truth and Reconciliation Day.
The drum group's journey began with a vision three years ago when the Indigenous Graduation Coach Ember Rost first started at Tec Voc. By listening to student voices and seeking administrative support, the group connected with drum maker Gilbert Courcelles and found leadership through students like Jesse.
Ember Rost provides profound context: "The teachings I have received from Gilbert, Vern, Derek, Jesse, and the community are that the drum is female and human. The drum symbolizes our connection to Mother Earth. It serves as a powerful reminder of the gift women gave to men long ago, allowing them to experience a connection to Mother Earth, which women naturally have."
"For Indigenous Peoples, the drum represents the universal heartbeat of Mother Earth. Its rhythm promotes healing and alignment of our mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical selves. When combined with the voice, the drum brings the spirits of our Ancestors to visit us. We need to make it clear that First Nations drums are not mere instruments; they are living entities tied deeply to the earth."
Under the mentorship of Grandfather Vern Dano and Jesse, and with the support of the school community, including the football team, the Good Heart Elk Singers practice with custom-made drumsticks by Tyler Binguis in the sacred space of the Great Spirit Lodge.
Both drum groups emphasize similar transformative aspects:
- Cultural Reconnection: Reviving and celebrating Indigenous traditions
- Personal Growth: Building confidence and emotional resilience
- Community Building: Creating supportive, inclusive spaces
- Spiritual Awareness: Connecting with ancestral teachings
- Emotional Healing: Providing a meaningful outlet for expression
As Ember Rost passionately explains, "First Nations drums are not mere instruments; they are living entities tied deeply to the earth. Each drum possesses a voice and spirit, brought to life in a sacred ceremony."
These drumming groups represent more than musical ensembles. They are powerful vehicles for cultural preservation, personal development, and community healing. By providing students with opportunities to learn, perform, and connect with their heritage, the Winnipeg School Division is supporting a profound journey of cultural revitalization.
*Oshkii Ogitchidaa* and the *Good Heart Elk Singers* continue to inspire, educate, and connect—one drumbeat at a time.
Here's a video of the Young Warriors practising the honour song during the lunch hour: