Indigenous music creators in Canada are invited to apply now for the inaugural Henry Armstrong Award, designed to support First Nations, Métis, and Inuit musicians. The deadline is May 13, 2022, and those interested can find the eligibility rules here, and apply here.
The newly launched bursary is named for MDM Recordings Inc. president and founder Mike Denney’s grandfather Lloyd Henry and mother Gloria Denney (née Armstrong), both fellow Six Nations Lower Mohawk. The genesis for the Award began in the Spring of 2021, following the initial uncovering of the 215 Indigenous children in the Kamloops Residential School mass grave. Knowing he wanted to help, Denney called upon his fellow industry representatives and quickly put together a committee united in the goal of promoting inclusivity, equity, and equality in the Canadian Indigenous music space.
The Award is open to all Indigenous music artists across Canada. Following the application window, a juried selection process will begin via a committee of Canadian music industry professionals, culminating with the chosen act receiving a $10,000 bursary, along with a tailored mentorship program of professional development services.