Phoenix's Canyon Records is rolling out an ambitious series of concerts to celebrate 60 years of preserving traditional Native American music while providing a platform for artists to take a more contemporary approach to their heritage.

Two of the biggest concerts in the "Traditions and Transformations" series, which stretches into 2012, will spotlight the label's traditional side with a colorful gathering of singers, dancers and musicians Saturday and Sunday at the Mesa Arts Center.

Powwow, hoop and grass dancers, adorned in feathers, beads, leather and fabric, will share the stage with singers performing in a range of styles, with lyrics in Native languages and English, and musicians playing Native American flute, guitars, drums and other instruments.

"This is about saying thanks to the Native community for working with us and trusting us with their music," says Robert Doyle, who worked with Canyon's founders in 1980 before buying the label in 1992.

"These are artists who reflect the Canyon values and philosophies of music, people who respect their traditions but are also willing to explore new personal and cultural visions."

The label, started in 1951 by Pittsburgh native Ray Boley and his wife, Mary, now boasts more than 600 titles from 150 artists.

Jack Miller, who has recorded sessions for the label since the 1960s, says Canyon -- the largest Native American label -- has a tight relationship with its acts.

"Canyon goes after special people, people who are involved in their (Native) community and then grow into a community that appreciates their culture from another side," says Miller, now semi-retired in Sun City.

Hopi singer and carver Clark Tenakhongva says, "Canyon has been there for all artists, regardless of which Native tribe they belong to. They are helping to keep our languages, our songs alive."

Here is a look at six of Canyon's signature performers who will be spotlighted at the two Mesa concerts.

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