Women in Suitu mark seven decades of vocal performances
In the heart of Latvia, the Suitu Women's Choir continues to resonate with the power of its vocal traditions and folklore, having made a significant impact both at home and abroad for over a century.
The choir's journey began in 1924, when it was first promoted on stage by Ludis Bērziņš. This pioneering moment marked the beginning of a long and storied history for the choir, as they took to the stage in Rīga for a performance that would set the tone for decades to come.
Ilga Leimane, a figure central to the Suitu culture for the past 50 years, first as a singer and later as a leader, has been instrumental in shaping the choir's identity. Leimane believes that to continue in Suitu culture, one must seek out various materials and express oneself in multiple ways.
The Suitu Women's choir has since become a symbol of Latvian folklore, with performances in 12 foreign countries, often at prestigious events. Their vocal harmonies have echoed in halls across the globe, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Latvian traditions.
In 2018, Ilga Pavāre took over the leadership of the "Suitu women," continuing the choir's legacy into the future. Under her guidance, the choir has continued to captivate audiences with their unique sound, having had numerous concerts in Latvia and abroad.
The choir's history and evolution are beautifully chronicled in the exhibition "Suitu sievas," which was organized in collaboration with the Aizpute Museum of local folklore. Located in Alsunga, the center of Suitu culture, the exhibition tells the story of 100 years, not just 70. It features worn-out costumes, awards, recordings, and publications from the choir's concert life.
As the Suitu Women's choir looks towards the future, a new book about Suitu culture has been published, providing a comprehensive overview of this rich and vibrant tradition. And for those who wish to experience the choir's music firsthand, a Midsummer song by the Suitu Women's choir is available for listening below.
The Suitu Women's choir's enduring legacy serves as a testament to the power of tradition and the importance of preserving and celebrating culture. As they continue to perform and inspire, the choir remains a beacon of Latvian folklore and a source of pride for all Latvians.
