Eaves and Bruns, two remarkable figures from the worlds of skiing, adventure, and music are coming to Fernie this February—not just to perform, but to give back.
On Friday, February 6, 2026, legendary skier-musicians John Eaves and Walter Bruns will headline a sold-out charity fundraiser in support of the Emily Brydon Youth Foundation. The exclusive event, hosted in a private ski-hill residence in Fernie, will raise funds for youth across the Elk Valley while delivering one of the most unique wine and music experiences ever staged in the community.
The evening—conceived and hosted by wine expert Glenn Fawcett—features a rare seven-year vertical tasting of “Nota Bene” from Black Hills Estate Winery. Each wine in the vertical will be paired with a live song performed by Eaves and Bruns, creating the immersive concept “Seven Songs for Seven Wines.” With just 75 guests and tickets priced at $500 per person, the event sold out quickly, with all proceeds benefiting the foundation.
From World-Class Skiing to the Stage
John Eaves is no stranger to pushing limits. A former World Champion freestyle skier, Eaves competed at the highest level during the early evolution of freestyle skiing and later gained international recognition as a James Bond stuntman, performing high-risk ski sequences that blended athletic precision with cinematic drama. Over time, Eaves transitioned his creative energy into music, becoming a respected performer known for intimate, story-driven live shows that reflect a life spent in the mountains.
Walter Bruns brings an equally iconic legacy. As the longtime CEO of Canadian Mountain Holidays, Bruns helped build CMH into the global gold standard of heli-skiing, shaping Canada’s reputation as the epicentre of big-mountain adventure tourism. Under his leadership, CMH became synonymous with innovation, safety, and unforgettable mountain experiences. In recent years, Bruns has embraced music as a creative outlet, forming a compelling partnership with Eaves that blends storytelling, reflection, and acoustic performance.
Supporting Youth in the Elk Valley
Founded in 2006 by Olympic alpine skier and Fernie resident Emily Brydon, the Emily Brydon Youth Foundation supports kids in Fernie, Elkford, Sparwood, and Elko by helping cover the costs of sports, arts, education, camps, and clubs. The goal is simple but powerful: ensure that financial barriers do not prevent local youth from pursuing their passions.
Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $1 million directly into Elk Valley youth, making a lasting impact on families and the broader community.
Didn’t Get a Ticket? You’re Still in Luck
For those who weren’t among the few to attend the sold-out “Going Vertical for the Kids” Nota Bene event, there’s good news. John Eaves and Walter Bruns will be playing live at the Griz Bar on February 7 and 8, giving the wider Fernie community a chance to experience their music—and the stories behind it—up close.
The February events are a reminder of what Fernie does best: bringing world-class talent together with community spirit, all in support of the next generation.
