(submitted photo/ Keegan Isaac)

By Kenneth Cheung

TELEMIRACLE 49

‘It’s about giving back’: Battlefords musician Keegan Isaac returns to TeleMiracle with Itsy Bitsy Big Band

Feb 7, 2025 | 3:00 PM

North Battleford-based musician Keegan Isaac will return to TeleMiracle 49, which begins on March 1 with his 11-piece Itsy Bitsy Big Band jazz ensemble.

Isaac first appeared at TeleMiracle 47 as part of a quartet. Now, with his full band founded in August 2024, he is eager to retake the stage and bring his childhood passion to the iconic charity telethon.

“I’ve watched TeleMiracle since I was very little, and I remember watching the performances on the TV and thinking, ‘It would be cool to be part of it one day,’ ” he said.

“So it’s really exciting to kind of step into that now in my 20s to fulfill that ambition.”

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The band has already recorded a 35-minute set, which will be broadcast during the overnight portion of TeleMiracle, with a selected song airing in the daytime segment.

“We’re going to be playing some jazz standards, some popular songs that we’ve turned into jazz arrangements, and some original tunes,” he said. “Really excited about it. There was a lot of enthusiasm during the recording.”

Despite being a relatively new ensemble, the band comprises seasoned musicians across the province.

“We have an 11-piece band—guitar, piano, drums, bass, and a seven-piece horn section. We only needed one rehearsal before recording because everyone was already well-prepared,” Isaac recalled.

“I’m fortunate to play with very polished musicians.”

Blending music with philanthropy

“I think it’s about giving back,” he reflected.

“I was very fortunate to have support to help me achieve my dreams, and others aren’t always as fortunate, whether due to health concerns or financial struggles. It’s very meaningful to be able to do what I love—perform music—and connect that with philanthropy and charity work.”

Keegan Isaac. (submitted photo)

Last year, his band raised $11,000 for the Cancer Centre in North Battleford through a sold-out concert in Meota.

This year, he has set a personal fundraising goal of $500 and is organizing a songwriter’s circle on Feb. 16 at Zion Lutheran Church in North Battleford.

The event will showcase local artists, including Doug Sylvester and himself, who will take turns performing original songs and sharing the stories behind them.

He noted that entry to the event is by donation and Nutrien will double the total donation amount before sending them to TeleMiracle.

“So, any donations through my campaign will be doubled, making an even bigger impact. People can donate online, or if they prefer, we’ll also accept cash and checks at the event.”

He will attend the live event at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon to present his fundraising check.

As TeleMiracle approaches its milestone 50th anniversary, Isaac is proud to contribute to its tradition, calling it “an important part of Saskatchewan’s identity.”

“Not only does it support so many families, but it’s one of the most successful and long-running telethons in North America. It’s really special to be a part of that.”

With his growing presence in the province music scene and a heart dedicated to making a difference, Keegan Isaac and the Itsy Bitsy Big Band are set to bring energy and excitement to TeleMiracle 49

The other performer from the Battleford area is Battlefords Blend.

Keegan Isaac is organizing the “Chickadee Songwriters Circle” to raise funds for TeleMiracle 49. It will take place at Zion Lutheran Church on Feb. 16, 2025.

—

Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com