Led by the multiple DMA Roots–nominated composer and violinist Maja Kjær, Maja Kjær si Orkester invites audiences into a musical odyssey of fiery instrumental folk. Here, the delicate idea of “Nordic Folk” is challenged as the ensemble pushes the boundaries of sound, form, and instrumentation. With violin, percussion, tuba, and not least the cimbalom—played by the acclaimed Romanian musician George Mihalache—Maja Kjær si Orkester fuses Nordic crispness with Eastern European charm and heavy grooves. The result is music that sets the concert hall vibrating with energy when they take over ALICE this April.

With its distinctive and fully realized expression, Maja Kjær Jacobsen has quickly established herself as a powerful force on the Danish folk scene. In Maja Kjær si Orkester, the piano is replaced by the cimbalom, the bass by a tuba, and the percussion carries both dark, primal power and delicate, almost fragile moments. The violins form the link to Scandinavian folk music, and together this unique ensemble creates a living space where the Nordic region meets Eastern Europe in a constant field of tension.

Despite the ensemble’s short lifespan, Maja Kjær si Orkester has already built a strong reputation. The debut album “Landing” (2024) was very well received and stands as a powerful first work, rooted in Denmark’s musical heritage, Maja Kjær’s personal background, and reflections on the time we live in. The music balances weight and curiosity, carrying a clear hope that more people will dare to explore their own roots and meet across traditions and cultures. Live, the ensemble has received high praise—among others at Tønder Festival—and now they are ready to take over ALICE. We can’t wait!

Lineup
Maja Kjær Jacobsen – violin
Signe Kierkgaard – violin
George Mihalache – cimbalom
Rasmus Svale – tuba
Christian Joen – percussion

Said about Maja Kjær si Orkester
“One of Denmark’s best fiddlers and an ace composer, Maja Kjær Jacobsen’s new ensemble was full of surprises. Lots of fun!” – Devon Leger, Songlines Magazine (US)

“The orchestra demonstrates with superior musicianship that the equation Danish folk music + Eastern European folklore works brilliantly.” – FolkMagazin (DE)

Fliid/McKenzie
Fliid McKenzie is a new Nordic duo consisting of vocalist Adine Fliid and cellist Adam McKenzie. Together, they create an intimate and captivating musical space where Nordic folk, pop, blues, and classical elements blend with poetic depth. Drawing from the duo’s debut album “Svaleheim”, their songs unfold as stories of myths, memories, landscapes, and belonging – sung in Norwegian and carried by acoustic warmth. With strong roots in the Nordic roots scene, Fliid McKenzie sets a tender and atmospheric tone as the opening act for Maja Kjær si Orkester at ALICE.