JOIN THE MOVEMENT
2027 IIMS SHOWCASE ARTIST APPLICATIONS - NOW OPEN!
More than music. A cultural shift.
We believe that Indigenous musicians and storytellers are powerful world-builders and change makers. Our stories tell us who we have been, who we are right now, and who we can become. Join us in amplifying and celebrating Indigenous voices and artistic brilliance around the world.
In 2026, we are bringing IIMS to you.
This year is about listening, connecting, and growing the work in communities across Turtle Island and beyond. IIMS has been deepening its focus on regional, national, and international activity in 2026, including performances, community gatherings, collaborations, and listening sessions. We will resume our main Summit gathering in 2027 – please stay tuned for more updates coming soon!
MINA NOWEWINAN
NEW!
A Concert & Celebration
Nov. 26, 2026 | Toronto
Mina Nowewinan (Good Sounds) is a celebration of Indigenous artistic brilliance coming to The Carlu in Toronto on November 26, 2026.
This event will feature a star-studded lineup of Indigenous talent from across Northern Turtle Island, including:
WILLIAM PRINCE - Two-time JUNO award winning artist
ELISAPIE - Award-winning Inuk singer-songwriter
SIIBII - Rising mythic pop star
BRIANNA LIZOTTE - JUNO-nominated Métis fiddle phenom
BEAR CREEK - JUNO-award-winning Anishinaabe drum group
AMPLIFYING INDIGENOUS VOICES SINCE 2019
Music. Ceremony. Connection. Celebration.
Artist Showcases
We are proud to present over 50 Indigenous artists/groups from around the world annually. In recent years, we've spotlighted Indigenous artists from across Turtle Island, Aotearoa, Argentina, so-called Australia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Sapmi, and many more!
Ceremony & Culture
IIMS is a unique gathering rooted in ceremony, community, culture, and connection. IIMS celebrates the richness and diversity of Indigenous music while fostering collaboration, strengthening the global Indigenous music community, and supporting the next generation of Indigenous artists and industry leaders.
Panels & Discussions
We offer a dynamic mix of cultural programming, Elder teachings, professional development, panel discussions, workshops and networking opportunities designed to inspire, educate, and connect delegates. Our industry programming explores topics relevant to today's music ecosystem and the unique experiences of Indigenous people working in music.
A Community, Gathering
What makes IIMS truly unique is the community that gathers with us. Artists, delegates, speakers, and industry professionals don't just attend sessions, they build genuine relationships. The Summit is designed to nurture meaningful connections that grow long after the week is over.
FEATURED PAST PERFORMERS
Celebrating Indigenous Excellence
AYSANABEE
Oji-Cree
ELISAPIE
Inuk
Sámi
MAXIDA MÄRAK
MISS KANINNA
Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, Kalkadoon and Yirendali
MUMU
FRESH
Choctaw, Creek, Cherokee, and African American
NORTHERN CREE
REI
Ngāti Raukawa and Ngāti Pākehā
Nêhiyawak
SARA
CURRUCHICH
Maya Kaqchikel
SNOTTY NOSE
REZ KIDS
Haisla
Inuk
TANYA TAGAQ
TESTIMONIALS
“Moving and inspiring…”
“What an honour it was to be part of the International Indigenous Music Summit in Toronto. This gathering brought together Indigenous artists, knowledge keepers, and storytellers from across Turtle Island and beyond. To stand in those spaces, share our music, and listen to the powerful voices of so many relatives was deeply moving and inspiring.
“Moments like these remind us why we do what we do. To carry our stories forward, honour our ancestors, and create connections that cross cultures and generations.”
- The Melawmen Collective, 2025 Showcasing Artist, Turtle Island
“More than a festival…”
“The International Indigenous Music Summit is more than a festival. It’s roots, family.
“What an honour to be part of this edition. What an honour and joy to hear so many feelings, thoughts, stories from so many territories, what a great, beautiful fabric! For the words, love, reflection, song and dignity, thank you IIMS.
“Matyox, matyox, matyox, Being part of this gathering is a reminder that music is not just art; it’s connection, it’s memory, it’s a celebration of who we are and where we come from. So grateful to stand alongside so many voices, sharing our stories and our songs.”
- Sara Curruchich, 2025 Showcasing Artist, Guatemala
“Centred & focused…”
“Each time I have attended the IIMS, I have come away with at least one meaningful lesson that reshapes the way I think — in my personal life, and professional life. In 2024, it was how a democratic use of space can lead to more effective dialogue; some sessions were led in a circle, meaning that everyone was equally positioned to contribute… I heard from many attendees that ‘all conferences should do that.’
“I have come to really look forward to the IIMS each year because it is the only conference that I regularly attend that feels centred and focused instead of rushed and full of sensory overload. IIMS is a space to connect with community, slow down, listen, and learn.”
- Maddy Oliver, Canadian Live Music Association