Systir

Tradfest brings you Systir

SYSTIR (Icelandic for “sister”) have grown from the legendary ANÚNA, creating a new and eclectic musical voice that explores the myriad shades and hues of the female voice. With 5 to 7 performers, they use imaginative staging, lighting, and movement to enhance their performances. In a short time, Systir has become one of Ireland’s most sought-after vocal ensembles since ANÚNA.

The artistic director of Systir is Irish composer Michael McGlynn. They blend modern vocal and instrumental techniques with ancient vocal performance practices to create a unique ethereal ambience. Their repertoire ranges from original songs, written and arranged by the women, to traditional folk elements.

Systir aim to showcase the natural female voice, highlighting the individuality of the singers. Each singer’s personality adds a different colour, allowing them to stand out while seamlessly melding together. The group’s name, Systir, reflects the bond between the performers and the audience.

Systir’s music is deeply rooted in storytelling, focusing on timeless human experiences and emotions, the relationship between humans and nature, and universal themes that resonate with both men and women. Drawing from the wealth of indigenous songs from across Europe, including sean-nós, Systir connects ancient vocal styles with contemporary storytelling. This cultural diversity enriches their shows, making each one a journey through various facets of the human experience, yet feeling familiar and relatable to the audience.