The National Music Centre (NMC) in Calgary is accepting applications for the 2026 OHSOTO’KINO Recording Bursary, and if you are a First Nations, Métis, or Inuit artist working in any genre, this one is worth your attention.
Two recipients will receive a week-long recording session at Studio Bell, with access to NMC’s world-class studios and its remarkable living collection of musical instruments. Artists are selected by NMC’s National Indigenous Programming Advisory Committee, and both traditional and contemporary musicians are encouraged to apply.
The OHSOTO’KINO initiative has been running since 2022, supported by TD Bank Group, and was recently renewed for another three years. Past bursary recipients include JUNO Award-winning powwow and round dance artist Joel Wood, Inuit-style throat singing duo PIQSIQ, country singer Chelsie Young, singer-songwriter Raymond Sewell, and traditional groups Blackfoot Singers and Warscout.
Applications are open now at studiobell.ca/ohsotokino and close on March 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm MT. If this applies to you or someone in your circle, spread the word.