The Indigenous classical music community is mourning the loss of Cris Derksen, a revered Cree cellist and composer known for breaking new ground in the industry.
Derksen, aged 45, tragically passed away in a car accident in northern Alberta while returning home from their father’s funeral in Tallcree First Nation near Fort Vermilion, Alberta.
The AIM Booking Agency, representing Derksen, expressed deep sorrow over the sudden demise of the visionary artist following the fatal crash. Derksen’s wife and frequent collaborator, Rebecca Benson, was also seriously injured and is receiving medical treatment.
After a highway collision on Friday evening on Highway 44, both drivers sustained severe injuries, with Derksen, who was in the passenger seat, succumbing to fatal wounds, as confirmed by Alberta RCMP to CBC News.
The Orchestre Métropolitain of Montreal paid tribute to Derksen, acknowledging their significant contributions to classical music and expressing condolences to their partner, family, and affected communities.
Multi-Talented Musician
Derksen, a two-spirit artist hailing from Tallcree in Treaty 8 territory, captivated audiences with their distinctive blend of classical string music, electronica, folk, and traditional Indigenous tunes.
Renowned for incorporating traditional melodies, powwow drums, and chants into their compositions, Derksen was celebrated for challenging conventions in classical music and expanding its reach to diverse audiences.
The National Arts Centre applauded Derksen’s unique artistic voice, which seamlessly fused classical training, Indigenous heritage, and electronic innovation, resonating globally.
With a dual Cree and Mennonite lineage, Derksen viewed music as a potent tool for storytelling, connection, and advocacy, bridging different cultural realms through their genre-defying creations.
Kathleen Allan, the artistic director of the Amadeus Choir of Greater Toronto and Chorus Niagara, expressed profound grief over Derksen’s passing, emphasizing their impact on encouraging deeper listening and societal change through music.
From a young age, Derksen displayed a passion for music, initially learning the piano before transitioning to the cello through the Edmonton Public Strings Program at age 10 and later pursuing studies at the Victoria School for the Performing Arts in Edmonton.
Derksen further honed their musical skills, earning a bachelor of music in cello performance from the University of British Columbia, where they served as the principal cellist of the UBC Symphony Orchestra.
The UBC School of Music highlighted Derksen’s advocacy for Indigenous representation in classical music, acknowledging their significant influence on contemporary musical expressions.
Described as a pillar of the Indigenous classical music community, Derksen’s collaborations and contributions to the Banff Centre were instrumental in shaping the industry, as noted by fellow musician Melody McKiver.
Derksen’s career flourished around 2006 when they began performing at music festivals alongside Tanya Tagaq, eventually becoming a prominent figure on Canada’s symphonic stage.
Notable works such as <