Aboriginal oratorio adds visuals to heartfelt singing.

There is something especially compelling about honesty. So rare nowadays, in an era of political spin, commercial artifice and the general trend to concoct "effective messages," individuals holding onto heartfelt ideals are worth treasuring.

Andrew Balfour, artistic director of Winnipeg’s Camerata Nova, is one such individual. A more dedicated and enthusiastic musician would be hard to find. Camerata Nova is an a cappella ensemble of 13 first-rate singers who specialize in Renaissance and contemporary music. Contradictory, perhaps, but the modern works fit seamlessly into their concert programs. Balfour is gifted at programming and even more so at composing.

The group’s performance this weekend, Northern Lights, features the world premiere of Balfour’s audiovisual aboriginal oratorio, Wa Wa Tey Wak, with innovative visuals by local video artist Bryan Besant.

Wa Wa Tey Wak was completed just a few weeks ago. Based on an original legend Balfour created, it tells the story of a young Cree woman who was born 300 years ago and is transported to present-day Winnipeg by a trickster. Balfour is Cree himself, but was raised by an Anglican minister.

"The story is about being lost, being on a journey," he says. "The work comes from my heart and it is sung from the hearts of the singers. There are also some subtle issues behind it."

Balfour speaks openly about his background, how he wasn’t always proud of his aboriginal roots. He’s known poverty, living in the rougher parts of downtown Winnipeg. "I saw people succumb to sorrow, addiction and poverty. I’ve carried that with me and it is reflected in my work now."

Balfour has come a long way, studying music and gaining an in-depth background in choral music. He founded Camerata Nova in 1996. The singers have produced two CDs and gained a loyal following for their three-concert season.

"Wa Wa Tey Wak will make you think," Balfour says. "Even in the confines of a concert experience, by just listening, there should come an awareness that we can change ourselves with compassion."

Accompanying the ensemble will be aboriginal singer Jamie Goulet and baroque violist Elise Lavallee. Drum, horns and wood percussion will also enhance the performance.

Besant’s projected visuals will include images of trees, aboriginal elders and scenes of the Whiteshell.

Balfour says this is only the beginning of a project that will continue to develop. There are plans for a CD and DVD of the oratorio. In the meantime, CBC will record the performance, which also includes works by Arvo Pärt and Latvian-Canadian composer Imant Raminsh.