Canadian Folk Supergroup Portage to Showcase Talent at Wesley United Church

In an exciting development for music lovers in Cambridge, a brand new Canadian folk supergroup is set to take the stage on August 3 at the Wesley United Church. This ensemble, known as Portage, brings together a diverse group of talented musicians and singers from across the country.

Portage is not just any musical act; it’s a vibrant collective featuring fiddlers, multi-instrumentalists, and vocalists who are ready to enchant audiences with both old favorites and original pieces. Their debut recording, aptly titled ‘Portage’, was released earlier this year, showcasing an impressive ten tracks filled with energetic fiddling that draws from a range of musical traditions.

The key members of Portage each come with their own unique backgrounds and expertise. For instance, Anne Lederman, who handles the fiddle, vocals, and several instruments including bones and accordion, hails from Manitoba. Anne has been a significant figure in the traditional music scene, particularly noted for her work in renewing Indigenous fiddling and other diverse musical styles. She founded organizations such as Worlds of Music Toronto and World Fiddle Day Toronto, and her research on Indigenous fiddling has gained notable recognition.

Erynn Marshall, another vital member, is well-known in the traditional music scene, originally from Victoria, British Columbia, but currently residing in SW Virginia. With accolades such as being the first woman and non-American to win first place in the prestigious Clifftop Appalachian Stringband Festival, Erynn’s talent shines brightly. She has appeared in films and books on traditional music and serves as a coordinator for Swannanoa Old-Time & Dance Week in North Carolina.

Then there’s Laura Risk, who originally comes from California but has made Montreal her home. Laura’s repertoire includes Scottish and Québécois fiddling, and she has recorded over a dozen albums. With her unique interpretations of traditional music, she blends meticulous research with a personal touch, making her a prominent figure in the fiddle community.

Christina Smith adds a wealth of experience to the group. She specializes in cello, fiddle, and vocals and has devoted decades to collecting, researching, and performing traditional music from Newfoundland and beyond. Christina has toured internationally and plays a significant role in the musical education landscape, being an instructor at Memorial University School of Music.

Rounding out the group is Jean Hewson, who fills the role of guitarist and vocalist. With a deep-rooted passion for the traditional sounds of Newfoundland and Labrador, Jean has shared the stage with many of the region’s notable folk artists for over four decades. One of her latest initiatives includes founding the Soundbone Folksong Choir, demonstrating her commitment to preserving and celebrating folk music.

Portage isn’t just limited to its core members; their new album also features contributions from noted Canadian fiddlers Wendy MacIssac and Bryan Poirier, representing the fiddle traditions of Cape Breton and New Brunswick, respectively. This collaboration adds an extra layer of richness to the album, which promises to be a delightful mix of various North-American fiddle styles.

Fans of traditional music can look forward to a performance that not only highlights individual talents but also celebrates the collective spirit of folk music in Canada. The event on August 3 is being organized by Wesley United Church in collaboration with Mill Race Folk Traditions, further emphasizing the community-centered aspect of Portage.

With an album that’s described as an uplifting journey, Portage’s music aims to connect hearts and feet, drawing listeners into a world of fiddles, captivating vocals, and strong communal ties that come from shared musical experiences. As the concert date approaches, folk enthusiasts are sure to mark their calendars for this unique event.