Helene Blum & Harald Haugaard Band
Photo: Sigrid Nygaard
Engaging and modern folk music from "lovely" Denmark.
Harald Haugaard is one of the most sought-after musicians of his generation. He tours, records, composes and teaches - and excites audiences and inspires young talent all over the world. His harmonica playing is an elegant combination of playful lightness and breakneck challenge. Haugaard is melancholic in his sound. His compositions are original, with deep traces in Danish musical tradition; traces that Harald Haugaard has translated into modern and innovative folk music.
He grew up in a rich folk music environment, and was early on playing to dances with his grandfather Johannes Kristensen. Dance, and all that lies in it of movements and feelings, is the very backbone of Harald Haugaard's music. Although the Danish roots lie at the bottom, he is also inspired by everything he encounters on his way. He likes to cross genre boundaries to challenge tradition and develop as an artist. Because as he says: The greatest source of inspiration is life itself!
Helene Blum has added something new to the concept of Danish folk music through her interpretations of Danish folk songs. By giving her voice to traditional material, she has opened the door to the Danish song treasure for new audiences; and has led to more and more people discovering the timeless and beautiful nature of these old songs. Her own material is inspired by tradition, but also becomes personal and strong stories. All this has made Helene Blum a respected artist and folk singer far beyond the borders of Denmark.
Harald Haugaard is also one of the composers for the new production Nordic Sound Folk Orchestra, Førdefestivalen This year's major initiative, which will be the opening concert of this year's festival, involves 40 orchestra members, 8 soloists and 4 composers.
Charismatic virtuoso from Denmark (The Strad)
"Haugaard is the master of sublime moments" (Music magazine Sing Out, USA)
Helene Blum - vocals, fiddle
Harald Haugaard - fiddle
Mikkel Grue - guitar
Tapani Varis - bass, willow flute
Sune Rahbek - percussion