Julie Alapnes
The multi-talented artist Julie Alapnes, proficient in the realms of violin, singing, and composition, masterfully weaves the tapestry of traditional Norwegian folk music with a rich and diverse musical palette.
On the stage, Julie's presence is unmistakable, as she delivers exquisite compositions while upholding the rich tradition of folk music from the northern regions of Norway.
Since her early days learning the fiddle crafted by her grandfather, Julie has evolved into a unique voice within the Norwegian folk tradition. Known for her powerful stage presence and distinctive sound, Julie seamlessly blends traditional North Norwegian folk music with her own compositions, enriched by an eclectic range of influences. Her music, described as a “cinematic landscape” by Lira Musikmagasin, combines the soulful weight of her fiddle with the harmonium, forming a lush, captivating foundation that sets her apart as an instrumentalist.
Julie’s exceptional career is marked by numerous accolades, including the Coop North Culture Prize in 2009 and a UNESCO “Young Artist for Intercultural Dialogue” award for her collaborative work across cultures. In 2009, she was also one of the students that participated in Shetland Folk Festival’s Nordic Tone project.
Her compositions and performances have graced stages worldwide, from the Cairo Opera House to the Celtic Connections Festival, and have even been arranged for orchestras. With each performance, she channels the rich heritage of her homeland while crafting her own place in the global folk music landscape.
Julie’s band is a remarkable ensemble that features Halvard Rundberg on foot-pumped harmonium and guitars, and Aleksander Kostopoulos on drums. Together, they create an energetic, innovative sound that brings Norwegian folk music into modern realms. Their 2018 debut album received wide acclaim, and their second album, Helleristning, earned a Norwegian Grammy nomination in 2022.
On stage, Julie Alapnes delivers exquisite compositions with a strong sense of tradition, her powerful fiddle and evocative voice immersing audiences in the timeless spirit of North Norwegian folk music—reimagined with a thrilling, contemporary twist.
