Fans of Norwegian folk music, take note: Geitungen, an energetic instrumental trio that's brimming with talent, is touring North America this month. I had the good fortune of hearing these guys play last summer at Nisswa-stämman Scandinavian Folk Music Festival, and I became an instant fan. The group, which plays traditional tunes from the Rogaland area in southwestern Norway, has released three albums: "Langt Ute" (2010), "Bra Kast" (2005), which won a Norwegian folk music award for best album, and "Vaniljesaus" (2001).
Geitungen (pictured here, from left) is Christer Rossebø on fiddle, mandolin, mandola and guitar; Håvard Ims on melodeon and accordions; and Vidar Skrede on hardanger fiddle, fiddle and guitars.
The group began its tour earlier this week in Calgary, Alberta. Their next stop is British Columbia and then Washington state before playing at Norsk Høstfest in Minot, North Dakota. They'll be playing a few gigs in Minnesota before heading back to Norway in October. You'll find a detailed tour itinerary on Multe Music. Check out their website for a sampling of their infectious tunes.
Amy Boxrud is editor of Viking magazine. She lives with her family in Northfield, Minn., where she’s a member of Nordmarka 1-585.