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Harmonizing Identities: The True Story of a Transgender Nyckelharpist in 1700s Sweden
Date: June 26, 2025. 6:00PM (Pre & Post Program Music) Location: American Swedish Institute, Mpls Meet Magnus Johansson—a nyckelharpa player born in 1683 on Åland and assigned female at birth as Maria Johansdotter. In 1702, they moved to Stockholm, boldly defying gender norms in both dress and profession. They performed in local taverns, playing nyckelharpa and singing. Their songs included sharp satire, including one aimed at a powerful, vengeful political figure with an overinflated ego and an inability to handle criticism. After receiving a male passport from a patron, they began living openly as Magnus Johansson—working as a shoe cobbler's apprentice, leading a church choir, and earning a reputation as earning a reputation as both a musician and a "Knutbyting"—a Swedish folk term for a charismatic heartthrob with rural swagger. Join Renee Vaughan, gender studies researcher, nyckelharpist, and ally, to learn more about this Magnus-ificent musician, and enjoy live music Magnus played, along with other well-known tunes from the time and region before and after the presentation—featuring Renee Vaughan (nyckelharpa), Paul Sauey (guitar), Mikey Marget (cello), Dan Newton (accordion). Free event. Before and after the presentation, listen to live music Magnus may have played, along with other well-known tunes from the time and region. Renee Vaughan (nyckelharpa), Paul Sauey (guitar), and Mikey Marget (cello) and Dan Newton (accordion) Free event |
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Red Pine Winery Midsommar
Date: June 28, 2025. 2:00 - 4:00pm Location: Cambridge, Minneapolis Celebrate Midsommar with Nördstar Ensemble at Red Pine Winery, a family-owned vineyard with Swedish roots over 100 years strong. Enjoy music by Renee Vaughan's Nordstär Orkester, the constellation will feature featuring Renee Vaughan (nyckelharpa), Paul Sauey (guitar), Laura MacKenzie (wooden flute and säckpipa) and Sarah Pradt (hardingfele), along with some of the best wine in a charming setting in Minnesota. Music, tradition, and the raising of the midsommarstång--welcome summer. Skål! |
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Balfolk Dance
Date: July 8, 2025 Location: Eagles Club, Minneapolis A night of French Folk Music and Dance at the Eagles Club in Minneapolis. Bob Walser will lead some traditional BalFolk Dances that are quick to learn for this fun and unique community-oriented event. Dancers of all levels are welcome. Live music with Dan Newton, Elizabeth Rowan, Pamela Longtine, Bob Walser, Laura MacKenzie, and Renee Vaughan |
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American Craft Council Fest
Date: June 28, 2025. 9:00 - 11:00am Location: St. Paul Union Depot The American Craft Council Fest 2025—a perfect setting to celebrate Nordic folk music and the expert craftsmanship behind each of our traditional instruments. Music by Renee Vaughan's Nordstär Orkester, the constellation will feature Renee Vaughan on nyckelharpa, Sarah Pradt on hardingfele, Laura MacKenzie on säckpipa and wooden flute, and Paul Sauey on guitar. We’ll be sharing music and instrument insights—connecting Swedish and Norwegian folk traditions to the rich world of American craft. Ticketed event. |
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Midsommar at American Swedish Institute
Date: June 21, 2025. 3:00pm Location: American Swedish Institute, Mpls Midsommar is a joyous tradition that welcomes summer with flowers, music, and dancing around the midsommarstång (maypole). Music by Renee Vaughan's Nordstär Orkester, will perform a set and play for maypole dancing. The constellation will feature Renee Vaughan nyckelharpa, Laura MacKenzie wooden flute and säckpipa, Paul Sauey guitar, Sarah Pradt hardingfele, Dan Newton accordion, plus we will be joined by very special esteemed guest, Somali percussionist Harbi Kahiye . Ticketed Event |
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Salad Hilowle: Inscriptions: Exhibit Opener
Date: June 20, 2025 6:00PM-8:00pm Location: American Swedish Institute, Mpls Experience the moving image, sound, and sculpture of internationally acclaimed artist Salad Hilowle, offering a poetic exploration of the African experience in Sweden over time. Music by Renee Vaughan's Nordstär Orkester, the constellation will feature Renee Vaughan nyckelharpa, Laura MacKenzie wooden flute and säckpipa, Paul Sauey guitar, Sarah Pradt hardingfele, and Dan Newton accordion, plus we will be joined by very special esteemed guest, Somali percussionist Harbi Kahiye. Ticketed Event |
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Duluth-stämman: Folk Music & Dance Festival.
Date: June 13 & 14 Location: Duluth, MN The Nordic Center is proud to present the 2nd annual Duluth-stämman: Folk Music & Dance Festival. Dances, workshops, jam circles, performances, youth activities, inclusive to people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. FYRA will be performing traditional Nordic music with fresh arrangements: Renee Vaughan (nyckelharpa), Sarah Pradt (hardingfele), Laura MacKenzie (wooden flute and säckpipa) and Erin Walsh (cello). |
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Resonating Roots: The Nyckelharpa's Journey to the Upper Midwest: Instruments, Musicians and MakersThe Nyckelharpa has found a passionate following in the upper Midwest, particularly in Minnesota. But how did this cherished national folk instrument of Sweden make its way here?
With an unbroken tradition spanning over 700 years, a typical nyckelharpa today boasts 16 strings—three dedicated to melody, one drone string, and the remaining 12 as resonant strings, contributing to its distinctive rustic and ethereal sound. This presentation sheds light on the instrument's rich cultural significance, its journey to America, and the musicians and makers who continue to grow its legacy. Copyright © 2025 Renee Vaughan |
