The Baltic Sisters are a cross-border folk ensemble uniting four singers from Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia. Their shared passion for "Sutartinės" — traditional Lithuanian polyphonic songs — first brought them together. By chance, the quartet met at the Womex music showcase in Lisbon in 2022, and from there, their journey began.

Their debut album, “Värav/ Vārti / Vartai” (The Gateway or The Portal), offers a blend of Latvian, Lithuanian, and Estonian folk songs, sometimes presented individually, sometimes seamlessly interwoven. The result is a soundscape as unique as it is timeless. “Our first album is like a portal into the world of traditional Baltic folk music — shaped by our personal interpretations. These songs brought us together. We explored each other's musical roots and made them our own,” says singer Liene Skrebiska.

“We represent three nations on the Baltic Sea that have stood by each other in both turbulent and triumphant moments of history. While distinct, we share much: a common past, a hard-won freedom, and a home by the sea. Our cultures are rich, and our languages ancient. Latvian and Lithuanian are the last remaining Baltic languages, remarkable for their archaic elements that echo Sanskrit. Estonian, from the Finno-Ugric family, is different yet deeply connected. Exploring ancient folk songs, we uncover even more similarities and redefine what it means to share a Baltic heritage,” the quartet reflects on the album's significance.

The single “Soka Saule Rītiedama” (Tell the Sun as It Sets) comes from Latvian folk singer Domicella Līpeņa, who led a life of hardship. Despite its sorrowful theme, the melody is rich in emotional depth and variation. “Domicella Līpeņa’s singing is truly unique. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from her and tell the poignant story of an orphan’s life,” shares Liene Skrebiska.

The second single, “Sese Sodu” (The Sister Plants the Garden), is a traditional Lithuania Sutartinė. It tells a simple yet evocative story of a sister planting an apple orchard, dreaming of an abundant harvest.

Marion Selgall (Estonia): A member of 6hunesseq and Tallinna Naesed, Marion teaches folk singing and leads masterclasses in Estonian and Finno-Ugric vocal traditions.
Laurita Peleniūtė (Lithuania): Laurita has been leading Sutartinės workshops for over 15 years in Lithuania and internationally. She performs with groups such as Māros rijos, UDU, and Marga muzika.
Vineta Romāne (Latvia): Vineta is a member of Saucējas (Latvian Academy of Culture) and the folklore group Laiksne.
Liene Skrebinska (Latvia): Liene, a singer and kokle player, hails from the folklore group Vīteri in Latvia’s Rēzekne region. She is currently studying at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre.