From a musical perspective, 2025 has been a rewarding year. I’ve had the opportunity to play many shows, including some notable festivals, and several recordings are in progress that I am already proud of. However, the most inspiring aspect of this year has been the burgeoning musical talent and depth showcased by the province’s youth.
In February, I met Levi Richard while performing at Saint John’s Haven Music Hall. At just 14 years old (he has since turned 15), he opened the show with remarkable confidence. His songwriting was impressive, and I was honored to review his debut single, “Being Used,” a month later here for Great Dark Wonder. That was just the beginning.
June brought the 10th edition of the Living Roots Music Festival. I had the privilege of backing Evan Cooper for two songs – “Out of Love” and “The Park” – as part of the ‘East & Nowhere Songsmiths’ showcase at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre. Although it was Evan’s first time playing with a band, his performance was seamless. His focus during the rehearsal was a personal highlight, transporting me back to my own teenage years.
Later that summer, my 14-year-old daughter, Claire, attended the local Girls+ Rock Camp, a week-long event at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre. The camp offered these teenagers, many of whom had never touched an instrument, the chance to form a band, learn about songwriting and marketing, record a demo, and perform in a showcase on the final day. Beyond the music, many participants formed strong bonds and remained in close contact. The four bands formed at the camp – AKNX Girls, Atlantis Ascending, user_not_found, and The Pigeons – have every reason to be proud of their accomplishments. Watching my daughter embracing my primary instrument, the bass guitar, was a particularly proud moment for me.
A few weeks after the camp, I attended an open mic night at Foghorn Brewing in Rothesay. Once again, young performers dominated the evening, with notable sets from Levi Richard, Graeden Kilpatrick, and Annabelle McDevitt. This strong youth presence is largely thanks to the efforts of Zack Ingles and Phil Babineau, who cultivate an accepting atmosphere and provide unwavering encouragement for the performers.
In September, the Girls+ Rock Camp crew reunited for a performance at Fredericton’s Harvest Music Festival. I also caught a glimpse of other young talents, such as Woodstock’s Iris Lloyd, who delivered an amazing set in front of the courthouse.
We also attended Fest Forward in November, which featured inspiring performances by Mia Lillie and Emma Dawson of The Pigeons. Frankly, their performances were the highlight of the event. At the very least, they set the tone for a very memorable night of music. It would be easy to forget that Lillie played her first set at the Living Roots Music Festival less than six months ago! She is already a mainstay of the music scene.
Now, in December, I had the privilege of hosting The Pigeons for a rehearsal for their upcoming show at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre. Two of its members, the previously mentioned Emma Dawson and Rylee Crowther, will also be performing solo sets. Both performers showcase a level of maturity and enthusiasm for the medium well beyond their years. It’s a magical thing to observe!
This is about so much more than teenagers strumming their first chords. These performers are delivering powerful, substantive content. They have something to say, and it is our responsibility to listen. It is imperative that we rediscover the world through their eyes. By pausing to listen, we may find answers to many of the challenges we face. After all, they will be the ones pushing us around in our wheelchairs before too long!
Photo Credit: Ollie LeBlanc
Ollie LeBlanc, based in Fredericton, New Brunswick, discovered his love for music in his parents' basement with a box of classic rock LPs. A lifelong fan, his fascination with music has only grown over the past three decades as a musician. Ollie has worn many hats, including bassist, producer, engineer, and photographer. As he matures, his journey has become more about contributing to the musical community and sharing its richness. What better way to give back to the medium that has given him so much!
