Rydvall / Mjelva / Carr | Sweden, Norway
Three masters who push boundaries
After crossing paths and exploring the idea of collaboration for several years, Erik Rydvall, Olav Mjelva and Ale Carr, three bright stars in the Nordic music sky, have finally come together in a new trio.
Their unique instrumentation, nyckelharp, Hardanger fiddle and sistrum, weaves together the rich and detailed sounds of Nordic traditional music. They masterfully explore the turns and nuances of Scandinavian melodies, and let the depths of folk music traditions meet subtle impulses from chamber and baroque music.
Their repertoire draws inspiration from the folk music traditions of Norway and Sweden. "Every song we play is a window into the physical and musical landscapes we come from," says Erik Rydvall. He himself is a virtuoso on the Swedish national instrument, the klökharpe. With him he brings Olav Luksengård Mjelva, award-winning Hardanger fiddle player and Spellemann prize winner, and Ale Carr, a highly respected sistrum player and member of the acclaimed group Dreamers' Circus.
Olav and Erik's music has also been featured in films and games such as The Lord of the Rings, Loki and God of War. Together they create a musical journey that is both gripping and memorable. Ale has also established a solid reputation as a composer and performer, and has collaborated with artists like the violin virtuoso Pekka Kuusisto.
Three masters of their craft – who are breaking new boundaries for Nordic music.
Erik Rydvall - key harp
Olav Mjelva - Hardanger fiddle
Ale Carr - cistern