Paper short abstract:

Seto women gained recognition as singers in certain political climates. Performing beyond domestic realms cultivated new political dimensions. Historical and contemporary expressions within a socio-political matrix are examined with emphasis on politicalized heritage as carried by modern singers.

Paper long abstract:

Seto women play essential roles as song leaders bringing them recognition in certain political climates. Historical and contemporary roles of women in Seto leelo singing are examined within a socio-political matrix. Certain opportunities were broadened for Seto women under Socialism, however, following World War II, some of these changes were merely symbolic. As practices of leelo shifted with socio-political changes this granted female singers with additional opportunities and cultivated new political dimensions. Performing empowered women by way of expansion beyond the domestic sphere of the patriarchal village and its behavioural norms. Singers communicated with the cultural elite, received recognition, and financial amenities. With the leelo revival movement, singers are engaging with their communities informed by this history with the aim of creating a better future. Contemporary leelo is central to cultural identity and many singers are politically active on local and international levels as Seto communities are transnational spanning parts of Estonia and Russia. Singers have prominent roles in Seto Congress and Kingdom Day which celebrate tradition while garnering international support. The UNESCO ICH inscription of leelo in 2009 has aided in these efforts significantly. Contemporary leelo heritage is thus politicized, with women highlighted as leaders in the tradition.