When you think of a symphony orchestra, musical genres like blues, rock, jazz and pop may not come to mind, but that’s what is happening Saturday night (Apr20) as the SSO presents YXE Divas. The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra is featuring eight local female voices covering a variety of styles.

Hip hop artist, Lindsay “Eekwol” Knight is used to being backed by only a recorded track. She says she can’t wait to bring hip hop to an orchestral space. Falynn Baptiste describes herself as a folk singer/songwriter. One of her songs is Amazing Grace, and sections of it will be sung in Cree. She says this is important to her as a First Nation Cree woman and a language activist.

Baptiste understands that there are a few different meanings to the word diva, but in this case, it’s not about being high maintenance. She says, “We’re talking about that female who goes out and makes a difference in the world and shines in the spotlight and sparkles in song.”

guests at the SSO’s YXE Divas:

Janna Sailor, conductor
Divas: Eekwol, Falynn Baptiste, Elyse Evangelista, Kateryna Khartova, Eileen Laverty, Madison McLean, Ellen Nasser, Sonia Reid
and guest host Alex Brown