Brisinga

The pagan folk band Brisinga consists of the three musicians Fanny (harp, bodhran, vocals), Fabi (hurdy- gurdy, flutes, vocals) and Sandra (cello, nyckelharpa, vocals). They combine folk influences from different countries with modern influences, such as minimal music and pop. Their unique compositions tell about myths, legends, but also archetypal feelings that have occupied people for thousands of years. They are played on rare instruments whose roots reach far back into the past. Their music moves between archaic chants and fine folk sounds.

The members of the band

In 2013, the musicians Fabienne Kirschke (flute, hurdy-gurdy) and Fanny Herbst (harp) met and started developing their common musical interests in a mediaeval music project. After the project, the two still continued their artistic collaboration and were supported by Johanna Bonnekoh (dulcimer), from which the band Brisinga emerged in June 2014. 

From 2017, after Johanna Bonnekoh left the band, Brisinga increasingly worked with guest musicians such as Maya Friedmann or Sandra Schmitt. The latter became a permanent part of Brisinga‘s line-up in 2019 and has since enriched the group with cello and nyckelharpa.

Their work

On a musical level, Brisinga‘s creative work is heavily influenced by pioneers of Pagan Folk such as„Omnia“ or„Faun“. Inspired by cultural influences from Northern and Central Europe, which are perceptibly woven into style, language and instrumentation of their pieces, Brisinga refrains from using any electrical instruments. The first album release from 2017,„Visa Nornir“ , manifests Brisinga‘s interest in themes of northern European mythology and culture, which is often articulated directly in the respective national language. In addition to English, there are Danish, Finnish and Icelandic lyrics on„Visa Nornir“.

Respectful and appreciative treatment of the underlying materials, without glorification or cultural appropriation, made Brisinga welcome guests in current and former sacred sites such as churches or archaeological open-air museums (e.g. in Oerlinghausen). In addition, Brisinga have often been part of the line-up of Castlefest since 2017.