A local Métis musician is hitting a high note through his inclusion in a documentary that showcases the connection between land, music and Indigenous languages.
Dave Lavallee, who lives just outside Stonewall, is a musician who weaves stories of his Métis heritage throughout his music.
He is one of 16 Indigenous artists from across Canada being featured in a documentary called Rhythms of the Land, which will broadcast on CTV on Saturday, July 12.
Presented by the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages, this national music documentary features performances by Indigenous artists across the country who sing in their own mother tongues.
Adding to the impact, each artist is filmed in a landscape of deep personal significance. The film follows the artists from coast to coast to coast in an impactful project, providing an incredible visual journey of Canada and its music.
For Dave, he chose to be filmed in St. Ambroise where he grew up. His deep family roots in the community stretch back to his great-grandparents.
Dave and his 16 siblings all grew up in a musical household, taking after their talented parents. Music was their main entertainment throughout childhood — a tradition that carried on throughout their lives and into the next generations. For the documentary, Dave shares a song in Michif.
Along with his wife Marj, Dave travelled to Gatineau, Que., for the premiere screening of the documentary.
“It’s so exciting. We are so proud of Dave and all that he does for his community — the Métis people and our family and friends,” Marj said.
“He’s been translating songs and teaching them to our daughter and granddaughter. They sing with him, so they’re learning to sing in Michif too. We’re really enjoying this.”
Together, Marj and Dave are ambassadors for the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages, and they’ve also been leading their own workshops that focus on the Michif language for youth and adults. Coming up, Dave will perform in Ottawa for the Global Indigenous Languages Summit – Waves 2025, and he’s also travelled to Kamloops to be involved in an event through the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages.
With a deep appreciation for his culture, Dave reflected on the significance of sharing the Michif language with others.
“I love doing it. I should have been doing it a long time ago,” he said. “I’ve always liked helping people out, and now I know I can with teaching people the language too.”
Earlier this year, Minister Mona Buors presented Dave with a King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his efforts to carry on the Métis culture and heritage through his music, language and teachings.
To keep up to date with Dave Lavallee and his music, follow the Facebook page called “Dave Lavallee – Lavallee Tradition.”
Visit rhythmsoftheland.ca to learn more about the Rhythms of the Land documentary, including a trailer and information about each artist — including Dave Lavallee.
