An Anishinaabe composer and violist, Melody McKiver (they/them) is “changing the way we think about the viola” (CBC). Praised for their “unique and captivating world of sound” (Exclaim), Melody is a compelling solo performer currently based in Sioux Lookout, Treaty #3 within their homelands of Wemitigoozhiiwitigwaaning / Lac Seul First Nation. Their work integrates electronics with Western classical music to shape a new genre of Anishinaabe compositions. Melody was a participant in the Banff Centre for the Arts’ inaugural Indigenous Classical Music Gathering. They are the 2020 recipient of the Robert Fleming Prize, awarded annually by the Canada Council of the Arts to an exceptionally talented young Canadian composer. Melody holds an MA in Ethnomusicology from Memorial University and a BFA in Music from York University. When not working in music, Melody is passionate about learning Anishinaabemowin, cycling, canoeing, and Anishinaabe plant medicines and food sovereignty. They are excited to be relocating with their Métis partner to Treaty #2 and the Métis homelands and joining the School of Music.