Choirs revolt against colonialism by singing new Huron Carol version

In Canada, a new version of the Huron Carol has been created to address its colonial undertones and provide an Indigenous perspective. This effort was sparked by a deep reflection on the carol's origins, widely believed to have been composed by Jesuit missionary Jean de Brébeuf in 1642. As the country navigates the period of Truth and Reconciliation, the previous lyrics seemed increasingly inadequate and misrepresentative of Indigenous experiences. The original English lyrics, penned in 1927 by Mr. Middleton, are often thought to be translations of a Wendat song, but research shows they do not align with the original Wendat creation of the song. This led to indigenous artist Andrée Levesque Sioui collaborating with musicians and academics like Dr. Gallant and Ms. Quartel, who felt a need to address the discomfort surrounding the carol's past. After considering various opinions from the Wendat community in Wendake, Que., where Sioui teaches the native language, she decided it was vital to include a Wendat voice in the new carol. The new lyrics delve into the Wendat Creation story, touching upon the impact of the Jesuits' arrival in North America and the accompanying wars and diseases faced by Indigenous people. This rewrite concludes with a hopeful vision for a peaceful coexistence where differences enhance unity, moving away from the carol’s original intent as a conversion piece. The official unveiling of the new version occurred at the Podium choral symposium in Montreal, marking a significant moment for the musicians involved. Choir groups across North America are preparing to perform this reimagined carol, which not only honors the history of the Wendat but also represents an opportunity for reconciliation and understanding. Some choirs, like Voca Chorus, are eager to share the new interpretation in their holiday concerts, demonstrating a growing interest in authentic narratives and perspectives within traditional music. This undertaking reflects a broader movement in the music and arts community to reassess historical works and ensure they inclusively represent all voices, particularly those that have been overlooked or marginalized. The reaction among choir members and audiences has been positive, with many eager to embrace this new rendition during the holiday season, indicating a shift towards embracing Indigenous stories and perspectives in mainstream Canadian culture.