Katherine Hillson is a classically trained opera singer and experimental musician based in Montréal, Canada. Her research in the fields of religion, women’s medicine and body autonomy are presented in the written and performance works of “Sainerine”, her solo project.

 

Sainerine invokes the operatic archetype of the fallen woman through piercing vocals and experimental electronics performance. Orchestral swells, ethereal synth textures and shards of noise are laced together with Hillson’s sensibilities of classical composition.

 

From The Quietus: “...the incredible, operatic auto-mutilation of Sainerine.” 

 

The new Sainerine work, “The Hysterical Fit (In Four Stages)” is an exploration of the theatrical aspects of the 19th century female hysteria diagnosis by interpreting French neurologist Jean Martin Charcot’s “four stages of the hysterical fit” through sound, operatic vocal performance and movement. The piece, set for 2026 release on Lana Del Rabies’ label, Feral Crone, was developed under the mentorship of performance art vanguard Ron Athey. 

 

Hillson’s performance works have toured cross-Canada and internationally.