Banjo
The Nyckelharpa is the quintessential folk instrument of Sweden, but it is also enjoying a world-wide renaissance which has freed it to play many different styles of music.
There is something distinctly old-world, even medieval about the nyckelharpa, and indeed many of its design elements date back to those times, despite the sophistication of its modern form. It is now a fully chromatic instrument, capable of playing comfortably in numerous keys.
Sessions
I play nyckelharpa in remote sessions for video game, movie and television soundtracks. I recently played in the Hellboy: the Crooked Man score. I also actively compose and arrange music for the instrument.
I will be happy to play to nyckelharpa for your project and help bring your score to life. In addition to traditional sounds and techniques, I can play in alternate tunings, with non-standard techniques and tone colors, and with an expanded palette of sounds. I can read music or play by ear from a reference track.
All recordings are studio quality with optimal mic placement, available in stereo or mono, ready to drop into your project timeline.
Check out the information sheet I created for composers which covers the range of the instrument, and visit the sessions page for more info.
Lessons
As my student, you will learn how to approach the instrument with ergonomics in mind, from the bowhold and technique to the way the instrument in actually held. As you will see, I don’t hold the instrument in the traditional way, due to the tension it puts on the neck. I learned to hold the instrument by adapting the work of Didier Francois, a modern player who has put a lot of time and energy into solving the problem of nyckelharpa-induced discomfort. Together we will achieve the most comfortable solution for you.
We will learn Swedish tunes, and also music from around the world, as well as develop your own compositional skill. We will learn to master the keys without looking, so you can maximize your intuitive connection to the instrument. If you happen to live nearby, we will also play together and find opportunities for you to play music with others.
All Lessons are also available online via Zoom. Contact me to set up an appointment.
Whatever your instrument, I will specifically tailor a lessons program to meet your individual needs. I will make sure that you engage with the music you love and start making music right away - not just practicing. Every bit of theory, history, or technique you learn will be related to the music you are studying, much of which you will choose. We will move at a speed suitable to your life, without pressure. All styles of learning and all ages 6 and up are welcome.
