Of Cree descent, Winnipeg-based composer Andrew Balfour is an innovative composer, conductor, singer, and sound designer with a large body of choral, instrumental, and orchestral works, including Mamachimowin, commissioned by the TMC.

Andrew is also the founder and Artistic Director of the innovative, 14-member vocal group Camerata Nova in Winnipeg. With Camerata Nova, Andrew specializes in creating “concept concerts”, many with indigenous subject matter. These innovative offerings explore a theme through an eclectic array of music, including new works, arrangements, and innovative inter-genre and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Andrew has become increasingly passionate about music education and outreach, particularly on northern reserves and inner-city Winnipeg schools where he has worked on behalf of the National Arts Centre, Camerata Nova, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and various Winnipeg school divisions for the past eight years.

Andrew composed Mamachimowin for the TMC’s 125th anniversary concert in 2019. He was the Guest Curator of Notinikew: A Program of Remembrance, TMC’s concert for Remembrance Day, 2020.