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Qilaut Songwriting Contest winners

Last updated Thursday, November 30, 2023

News Release

For Immediate Release

Qilaut Songwriting Contest winners

IQALUIT, Nunavut (November 30, 2017) – The Department of Culture and Heritage is proud to announce the winners of Qilaut 2017. This year, the Department received a total of 23 songs from Nunavummiut youth. A panel of three musicians evaluated the songs for their originality, creativity, melody and lyrics.

"The Qilaut Inuktut songwriting contest is an excellent way to celebrate Nunavut’s exciting Inuktut music scene and promote the use of Inuktut in all areas of daily life," said Minister of Culture and Heritage David Joanasie. "I am especially pleased that so many young Nunavummiut participated in this year’s contest. It demonstrates the vibrancy of our youth, and their pride in using Inuktut in creative ways. Thank you to everyone who submitted songs and congratulations to all of the winners!"

The top ten winning songs are:

1. Qaigialaurit by Leetia Kalluk from Arctic Bay

2. Angijuq by Joey Nowyuk from Pangnirtung

3. Aullarniaqtunga by Abraham Eetak from Arviat

4. Kihingmiuqlunuk by Abraham Eetak from Arviat

5. Nagligijaugavit by Corey Panika from Rankin Inlet

6. Angirrarviga by Angela Amarualik from Igloolik

7. Ataata by Colleen Nakashuk from Iqaluit

8. Inuinnaujaami by Gordon Kaniak from Kugluktuk

9. Maanna by Leetia Kalluk from Arctic Bay

10.Hilami Ulapkiyami by Gordon Kaniak from Kugluktuk

The top three winners will receive $5,000, $2,500 and $1,500 respectively, and the seven runners-up receive $500 each. All ten songs will be professionally recorded on a CD to be released in February during the 2018 Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq, Nunavut’s annual celebration of Inuktut.

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Media Contact:

Daniel Pimentel
Communications Manager
Department of Culture and Heritage
867-975-5526
@email

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