The Saga Singers is a group of non-professional, multi-generational (ages 8-80+!) singers who are interested in learning about, and the preservation of Icelandic culture and traditions. They do this through English explanations of their choral singing. The ladies' costumes are the authentic or faithful copies of the 18th century costume known as the upphlutur, now the most common of the three Icelandic costumes.
This group had its beginning in 1967 and was organized formally in March 1968, under the directorship of Lil Sumarlidason, when it became affiliated with Nordurljós (Northern Lights), the Icelandic Society of Edmonton. Under the directorship of Lil, followed by Della Roland, Burky Letourneau, Gloria Krenbrenk, and currently, Cal Krenbrenk, the choir has met in member's homes for practices. An increase in membership necessitated a no-cost location, so they are now meeting weekly at the Dutch Canadian Club Centre. Although membership has fluctuated and changed over the years, depending on the member's abode, work patterns/shifts, interest, and time, there has remained a core of a dozen plus people at each practice (not always the same ones!). They have a few original people in their current count of 24. Their repertoire is mainly the favourite songs that their parents and grandparents brought with them from Iceland, some of which have new arrangements by Cal. They have some modern favourites as well.
The Saga Singers have entertained at the majority of the official functions of the Nordurljós society: Þorrablót, the Christmas party, Edmonton Heritage Days, the crowning of the fjallkona at Íslendingamót in Markerville (the weekend closest to June 17), the Markerville centennial, the centennial of Vonin (Icelandic Ladies Aid of Markerville), and for visiting dignitaries, including Iceland's President: Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, former President: Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, and Pope John Paul II. This group has also entertained at the Provincial Museum, for Stephansson House activities, at senior lodges and nursing homes, and has participated in a few celebrations of life and in a marriage.
Within 35 years of singing, the Saga Singers have traveled further a field, presenting concerts in Ottawa, ON; Gimli (twice) & Lundar, MB; Wynyard, SK; and more recently within Alberta at the Icelandic Connection conference in Red Deer, the Icelandic National League conference in Calgary, and the Stefan & Olla Stefanson Traveling Exhibit in Calgary.
Their participation & presentations in all these activities are appreciated and applauded.
