Bethany Hill & Victoria Fraser

Turas Ensemble

turas

[tʌrəs]
noun
From old Scots Gàidhlig and Irish Gaelige
1. journey, visit
2. pilgrimage; expedition
3. time (uncountable), occasion

Experimental folk duo, Turas, was formed in 2023 by Victoria Fraser and Bethany Hill. With a deep love for folk music and extensive backgrounds in classical singing, composition, theater, Victoria and Bethany explore and expand the boundaries between these genres. Turas is the creative vision of two women who believe music can be more expansive than the limits traditionally imposed upon it. We believe there are no rules when it comes to performance practice, concert venues, vocal technique, genres, musical structures, vocal range, or instrumentation. 

Our music explores the full range of the female voice, reinterpreting repertoire that spans the ages. Our performances weave together playful explorations of Celtic folk, medieval, classical, baroque, electronic, and acoustic music. We strip away the formality of classical concerts to revitalize its relevance in the modern world. We celebrate stories and voices from antiquity to today in multiple languages and musical traditions. Our music is a unique soundscape created with an eclectic blend of instruments and flexible vocal styles. We are as passionate about reinvigorating old styles as we are about the creation of new works: our programs include new music (both vocal and instrumental) and poetry by Turas members as well as work by other contemporary composers. We believe music from any time or tradition can be reimagined and made accessible to a diverse audience.

Our debut album is in the works, while continuing to develop our existing programs and begin touring locally and internationally.