Seeking Military Community members to share their life experiences through music at first Virtual Ceilidgh

A celebration with song and poetry, the MFRC PEI is marking the 25th anniversary of Military Family Services Programs through a Virtual Ceilidgh on Nov. 24. MFRC PEI Virtual Programs is currently looking for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, veterans, and their families to show off their talents and participate in the Ceilidgh.

“Everyone of us have a story to share about our journey. Music is a creative way to have your voice heard to underline the challenges and the celebrations of what it means to be part of the Canadian Military Community,” said Margaret MacKenzie Virtual Program Coordinator.

Several musicians and military members are currently signed up to perform at the Virtual Ceilidgh. These artists include Terry Kelly, Emerald Junction, Ryan Carey, Guitars for Vets, the Canadian Military Wives Choir and a welcome by Parliamentarian Karen McCrimmon.

“Music brings people together, music gives us a voice, music is a great way to share your journey.  Through music you can say things that may not be able to be said in words,” noted MacKenzie.

Terry Kelly, Honorary Colonel of CFB 14 Wing Greenwood, will share two new songs he wrote about recognizing veterans and the journey of a military family.

PEI band Emerald Junction composed a song entitled All’s Fair that was inspired by the battle many soldiers fight against Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Capt. (ret’d) Ryan Carey, who was part of Operation Medusa, will be sharing music written about his journey from the CAF to civilian life. He also wrote a song entitled Panjwai to recognize the tenth anniversary of Op. Medusa.

Several spouses and military members are also taking part including Ali Davies, a military spouse who suffered from a brain injury after a distracted driver accident.

“This event gave her inspiration to write and perform a song about what it means to be part of a military family; moves, deployments, health issues, Sucking it up…Not This virtual Ceilidgh gave Ali a voice, a way to share her journey that she would not have otherwise had the chance,” noted MacKenzie.

Also taking part is military couple Joanna and Sean Church. Joanna, originally from the U.S., will be sharing her thoughts on being part of the Canadian Military community.

Nichole Blanch, a military spouse, and a member of the Canadian Military Wives Choir, will also be performing.

Each participant will share two slides with the audience during their performance: one sharing their personal journey and the inspiration behind their song and the other with the words of the song for the audience to follow along.

Military community members in Prince Edward Island are planning to gather together and join the Virtual Ceilidgh as a group.

“This type of participation is called live/virtual event.  The community gets together to share, laugh and be part of the virtual event as a community,” said MacKenzie.

Spots will fill up fast, so MacKenzie recommends signing up early to attend the Ceilidgh.

To register to attend the Virtual Ceilidgh, taking place on Nov. 24 at 6:30 p.m. EST, click here.

One spot is left for a CAF member, family member or veteran to participate in the Virtual Ceilidgh. The deadline for the call for musicians is Friday, Sept. 30. To sign up email Margaret MacKenzie at [email protected].