Today marks the launch of the fourth annual Henry Armstrong Award (HAA), a bursary and mentorship program dedicated to developing, elevating, and supporting the diverse talents within the Canadian Indigenous music community. Open to Indigenous artists nationwide (excluding QC due to restrictions) and across all musical genres, the HAA provides both financial support and professional development opportunities to the chosen recipient.
Applications are now open and will close on April 18th. Following the submission period, a jury of Canadian music industry professionals will review applications, selecting one recipient to receive a $10,000 bursary and a customized mentorship program designed to support their professional growth, and the winner will be announced on National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21st.
Past recipients of the Henry Armstrong Award have seen a significant impact on their careers, using the bursary and mentorship to take their artistry to new heights. Inaugural winner Kyle McKearney called the experience a “game-changer,” opening major doors for his career in the Americana/Roots/Country scene, while Edmonton-based Métis singer-songwriter Kaeley Jade (2023) described the program as “an integral part” of her career development, providing invaluable industry connections and guidance as she prepared to record her next project. 2024 winners City Natives credited the award with giving them their first real project budget, helping them collaborate with Multi-Platinum artist Classified on their next album. As the program continues to support emerging Indigenous talent, artists are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this transformative opportunity.\
The Henry Armstrong Award is made possible by MDM Recordings Inc. 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 Henry Armstrong Award is backed by a committee united with the goal of promoting inclusivity, equity, and equality in the Canadian music industry and beyond.
For more information and eligibility requirements for the Henry Armstrong Award please visit henryarmstrongaward.ca.
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