Inspired by a wide array of cultural influences, the instrumental fusion of The Meliponas is an upbeat mix of Latin, jazz, and European sounds like you’ve never heard before!

BAND BIO:

The eclectic, upbeat, and ethereal music of The Meliponas has been creating a stir in the Okanagan since the band launched in early 2018.

The 4-piece instrumental band out of Kelowna, BC, is made up of Victor Hugo Cobian (lead guitar and charango), Lucie Bardos (rhythm guitar), Megan Frederick (bass), and Ethan McKibben (drums). The four musicians’ varied musical and cultural backgrounds reflect clearly in their music, which pulls from a variety of international sounds. In their original compositions, listeners might hear variations of Brazilian Samba, Peruvian Huayno, or Jazz Manouche, while at the same time experiencing something completely unique.

Since their inception, The Meliponas have performed at festivals, such as the Kelowna World Music Festival, the Okanagan Wine Festival, The Seismic Festival, and the Fireside Festival, while also fitting very well into more intimate settings such as restaurants and breweries.

The name of the band comes from The Melipona Bee, which is a type of stingless honey bee that is native to Central and South America.