siirdise

Siirdise is a term used in ethnographic literature to denote a traditional form of oral-poetic performance that blends poetry recitation with musical accompaniment and improvisation. It is practiced by communities in diverse regions where oral literature plays a central role. Performances are typically community-centered, held at markets, festivals, or rites, and may last from several minutes to over an hour. A singer or poet, often accompanied by percussion or string instruments, recites verses that relate stories, histories, or moral and social commentary. The form often features call-and-response patterns, mnemonic refrains, and variations in each telling.

The etymology of siirdise is unsettled; some scholars link the term to words for poetry or verse in neighboring languages, but there is no consensus. Scholarly discussions classify siirdise as a distinct genre within the broader spectrum of epic and lyrical performance, though accounts differ by region in terms of tempo, scale, and audience participation.

Historically transmitted orally, siirdise faced decline with social and cultural changes, but has seen revival efforts in recent decades, aided by ethnographers and cultural programs. In modern contexts, practitioners may blend traditional elements with contemporary themes or media, helping preserve the practice while reaching new audiences.

See also: orature, bardic tradition, epic poetry, performance poetry.