Renee Vaughan and the Nordstär Ensemble plays a lively mix of new and traditional Nordic music with a range of acoustic instruments. The name "Nordstär" connects to our Minnesota roots and the Nordic direction of our sound. Each performance brings together a fresh constellation of talented musicians—each a shining star—curated to match the spirit and setting of every event.
FYRA performs traditional Nordic music with fresh arrangements, showcasing works connected to women musicians like Finland’s Maria Helena Spoof, Sweden’s Christina Bruun and Ida Gustafsson, and Norway’s Ingunn Bjørgo. The quartet has performed at the American Swedish Institute's Karin Larsson exhibit opening and is set to open for Emma Björling and Skye Consort. Later this spring, they will perform at the ASI Midwinter Folk Festival. Members include award-winning musicians recognized for their contributions to Nordic and traditional music:  Renee Vaughan (nyckelharpa,) Laura MacKenzie (flute and säckpipa) Sarah Pradt (hardingfele,) and Erin Walsh (cello) 
The McNordiques blend the rich musical traditions of French, Scandinavian, and Celtic cultures into a seamless tapestry of melody and rhythm. With Dan Newton on accordion, Renee Vaughan on nyckelharpa, and Tom Klein on uilleann pipes and cittern, their music takes listeners on a journey through centuries of folk traditions, celebrating the unique charm of each style along the way. 
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