Young local talent emerging in Country music

Line dancers rejoice - Prince Albert's country music scene is full of young musicians to get your toes tappin' and keep plaid in fashion for decades.

"All those young people will eventually become seasoned veterans," said Larry Krause, president of the Prince Albert Country Music Association.

The association has enjoyed a glut of young talent recently, with a number of artists playing at the Christmas show held in December, proving to Krause that the country scene is strong in the area.

After hosting the Saskatchewan Country Music Association awards last year, Krause said he feared a drop-off in interest might happen after the awards ended and the hype left, but that didn't happen.

"I'm encouraged by the number of applications of people looking to become members of the association. It's been a real steady flow," added Krause.

One of those young artists already a member is 11-year-old Shantaia Poulin of Spiritwood.

Poulin learned guitar when she was 5 or 6 and is now looking forward to a gig at the upcoming Telemiracle fundraiser.

"I see myself trying to make a career out of this," said Poulin.

The Martina McBride-inspired artist also enjoys covering Taylor Swift. But she might not be doing only covers for long.

"I have started writing my own stuff, but I'm not putting it out yet," said Poulin.

She also doesn't think she will trade in her musical Wranglers in for a pair of indie-inspired skinny jeans once she gets older.

"Well I have always (been) country since I was young," said the well-spoken Poulin. "I ride horseback and country is my thing."

Local music star Donny Parenteau said established musicians like himself need to eventually "pass the torch" to younger musicians, like Poulin.

"When you're talking about the young musicians and the young players, they basically take over for people like myself."

He added he was aware of some of the young talent in the area, especially Poulin, and he hopes people like her dig as hard as he did to be successful.

jpage@paherald.sk.ca