Known for their innovative instrumental compositions rooted in Flemish traditional music, siblings Ward & Hartwin Dhoore have been roaming international stages together for over 15 years. They have been the oiled engine behind award-winning bands & projects such as Trio Dhoore, Estbel and The Flemish Folk Caravan, just to name a few.
Throughout the years the brothers managed to create their own musical identity that has attracted many listeners far across the Flemish borders. With concerts in almost every country in Europe, the UK, and North America and performances at festivals such as ‘Celtic Connections’ (Scotland), Underneath the Stars (England), Folk Alliance International (USA), Rudolstadt (Germany) and many more, the brothers established a wide fanbase on which they have built a strong career.
Today they are performing mainly as a duo called ‘Siger’. ‘Siger den Rode’ was the first landlord of ‘Rodeland’, a Flemish area (Belgium) with a rich cultural history that the two brothers call “home”. He ruled in peace with the local population until the Spanish conqueror came and overthrew him.
“We find a lot of inspiration for our music in being on the road together. On tour, we find ourselves in so many different situations that evoke certain emotions, which are then often translated into new tunes” explains Ward, the youngest brother and Mandola player of Siger. “It’s not uncommon for us to start playing a new melody during a soundcheck. If that happens, and the other person immediately joins in, playing some chords or a harmonious tune, we both know that the tune is going to make it to the next album.” adds Hartwin, accordionist of the duo.
But Siger’s music is also appreciated in Flanders, the duo’s home base. Their instrumental music can be heard regularly on the national radio. The brothers regularly perform at one of the biggest folk festivals in Belgium; the Dranouter Festival, and presented their modern folk music in many Flemish art centers. Although the brothers have been playing together for over 15 years, their excitement to introduce new music and enthral new audiences is never-ending. Diatonic accordion and octave mandolin complement each other seamlessly in a musical adventure where you sit on the edge of your seat.
