“O Siem” by Susan Aglukark | OrKidstra's KidSingers | 2021-22

OrKidstra’s KidSingers virtually perform “O Siem” written by Susan Aglukark and Chad Irschick and arranged by Denis Donnelly. Thank you to Aglukark Entertainment Inc. for special permission for OrKidstra's KidSingers to perform this piece.
During a career that has spanned more than 25 years, Susan Aglukark’s journey as a singer-songwriter has led her to reflect on who she is, where she comes from, and the importance of discovery - the discovery of history, culture and self. Susan is the first Inuk artist to win a Juno (3) and a Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for lifetime artistic achievement; she is an officer of the Order of Canada, holds several Honourary Doctorate degrees and has held command performances; but Susan also acknowledges the path has not been easy. Through her music, Susan continues to share her experiences as an Inuk growing up in Nunavut, as well as the challenges faced by northern communities and Indigenous youth.
LYRICS:
O Siem, we are all family
O Siem, we're all the same
O Siem, the fires of freedom
Dance in the burning flame
Siem o siyeya, all people rich and poor
Siem o siyeya, those who do and do not know
Siem o siyeya, take the hand of one close by
Siem o siyeya, of those who know because they try
And watch the walls come tumbling down
O Siem, we are all family
O Siem, we're all the same
O Siem, the fires of freedom
Dance in the burning flame
Siem o siyeya, all people of the world
Siem o siyeya, it's time to make the turn
Siem o siyeya, a chance to share your heart
Siem o siyeya, to make a brand new start
And watch the walls come tumbling down
O Siem, we are all family
O Siem, we're all the same
O Siem, the fires of freedom
Dance in the burning flame
Fires burn in silence
Hearts in anger bleed
Wheel of change is turning
For the ones who truly need
To see the walls come tumbling down
O Siem, we are all family
O Siem, we're all the same
O Siem, the fires of freedom
Dance in the burning flame
O Siem, we are all family
O Siem, we're all the same
O Siem, the fires of freedom
Dance in the burning flame
O Siem, we are all family
O Siem, we're all the same
O Siem, the fires of freedom
CREDITS:
Video/Audio Production by Tanya Chang
Performed by OrKidstra’s KidSingers led by Teaching Artists Ms. Deborah, Ms. Wendy and Ms. Jessica with special guests OrKidstra staff members Rebecca Russell, Carrie Olivo Lauzon, and Inga Vitols.
Premiered December 16, 2021 | Copyright OrKidstra
OrKidstra is an Ottawa-based charity that helps to empower kids and build community through music. Please visit our website to learn more: orkidstra.ca