Featured UBC Alumni: Cris Derksen, Cello (BMus ’07)
Released: November 6, 2025
Description: Cris Derksen, a Juno-nominated Indigenous cellist and composer, is internationally renowned for her genre-defying music that bridges the traditional and contemporary. Hailing from Treaty 8 territory in Northern Alberta, Derksen comes from a lineage of chiefs from the NorthTall Cree Reserve on her father’s side and strong Mennonite homesteaders on her mother’s. Her work intricately weaves together her classical training and Indigenous heritage with modern electronic elements.
Derksen’s unique sound began to take shape in 2006 when she started performing with Tanya Tagaq, using multi-effect guitar pedals to make the cello more relatable and innovative. Her debut album, “The Cusp,” remains a staple on national radio and is frequently licensed for television and film. A staple of the Canadian Folk Fest circuit since 2007, she has performed with her quartet and various indie rock bands. In 2016, she released “Orchestral Powwow,” blending symphonic elements with powwow music, a project performed with symphonies and arts festivals across Canada, marking her return to classical roots.
For more information, visit Cris Derksen’s site at https://www.crisderksen.com/music
Check out Derksen’s new album now available on Tidal and Apple Music.