Mythological shapeshifters, the figure of the Siren has been present in seemingly unrelated cultures for millennia. Appearing as half-birds, or with fish-like tails and often gender fluid, Sirens were singing enchantresses capable of luring passing sailors to their doom with the irresistible beauty of their song.

Their ominous presence is woven throughout the myths and legends of the world. In some cultures, they signify life and fertility within the ocean; in others, the temptation of knowledge. However, they seem to unanimously embody the destructive nature of water — serving as an omen for storms, unruly seas, and danger.

Bringing a new approach to these ancient stories, Van Diemen’s Fiddles lend their unique sound-world to an evocatively mesmerising program of new works and re-worked historical compositions based on tales from Japan, Germany, ancient Greece, and current-day Lutruwita/Tasmania.

Van Diemen’s Fiddles unite the exceptional talents of Baroque violinist Julia Fredersdorff, klezmer/folk fiddler Rachel Meyers, experimental/folk fiddler Emily Sheppard, and contemporary/Baroque violist Katie Yap.

Image Credit: Albert Comper + Futago