Find your inner groove

There's an inner musician in all of us. Yes, even you. No, I'm not talking about karaoke in the shower, but rather the way your toes tap when a familiar tune comes on the radio. Music is the maker of moods. And it's the language of love.
Whether your particular bent is folk, jazz or classical, reconnecting through music is the best way to find some "crazy love," "make a little romance," or remind each other "you're still the one." And Manitoba knows music. Even as the temperature drops, the music scene heats up.
Check out the best in Aboriginal music during Aboriginal Music Week November 3-7, 2009 taking place during Manito Ahbee, the largest showcase of Aboriginal music and traditional culture in Canada. Five nights of concerts and three free lunch-hour shows will feature the best Aboriginal artists from across North America. Cap off the week by celebrating the best in Canadian Aboriginal music at the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards at the MTS Centre on November 6, 2009.

www.manitoahbee.com

Take your mind off counting down the days until next summer’s Winnipeg Folk Festival by taking in one of several shows offered by the Winnipeg Folk Fest. The Winter Concert Series features top folk acts at Winnipeg’s best live music venues, including the West End Cultural Centre and the Burton Cummings Theatre. Or head down to the Folk Exchange on Market Avenue for an intimate house concert with a relaxed listening room atmosphere. On November 28, 2009, join the Winnipeg Folk Festival for its annual fundraising celebration of the music and feasting of winter, Winter Wassail at the Winnipeg Convention Centre.

www.winnipegfolkfestival.ca

Celebrate the beauty of our planet with music from all over the world at the IMRIS New Music Festival presented by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. From the distant sounds of the arctic to the urban sounds of the city, the IMRIS New Music Festival brings you music that reflects our connection with nature. February 6-12, 2010.

www.wso.ca

Join the party at le Festival du Voyageur, a celebration of francophone culture and history in Winnipeg’s French quarter, Saint-Boniface. The music ranges from traditional fiddle, to folk, roots and rock-n-roll. Keep warm by tapping a toe, or more, to the beat! February 12-21, 2010

www.festivalvoyageur.mb.ca

See the next jazz superstar at Brandon’s Jazz Fest. This non-competitive event focuses on music education features some of Manitoba’s best young jazz musicians. The concerts are far from classroom basic – from big band ensembles to vocal jazz choirs and ensembles from all over western Canada and the U.S.

www.brandonjazzfestival.com