Fiolministeriet

Fiolministeriet
Fiolministeriet
Go’ Danish Folk Music GO0511

One of the great beauties of Danish folk music is its malleability. In large part this is because the music is largely instrumental, so the framework of the song can be forgotten. The Fiddle Ministry (which is how the band’s name translates) has a wonderful time turning Danish folk into neo chamber music (along with a couple of original pieces). The lineup – two violins and a cello – gives them plenty of scope for their purpose, and the background that all the players have in folk music means this isn’t dilletantism at all. The pull from some well-known manuscript books for their material, including the wonderful work of Rasmus Storm, back when English music was a great influence on Denmark (in fact they take “Storm/Engeliska”). They can play with great delicacy when needed and then push up the passion and even add nice touches of humour to the proceedings. By offering such a different take on traditional music they open it up to a new audience (no bad thing) and expand the possibilities for the music in the future (also no bad thing). Danish music continues to be the most exciting prospect in Europe, and Fiolministeriet adds to its glory.