Hartwin Trio (Flanders, Belgium) / Dancan Ritchie (Scotland)

Hartwin is a diatonic accordionist and composer. His instrumental music has been moving people worldwide for many years. He is known for his simple and melancholic melodies that leave much room for the listener’s imagination.

With Flavia Escartin (cello) and Pavel Souvandjiev (violin), Hartwin surrounds himself with two talented and extremely creative musicians who are not averse to combining elements from different styles with each other. The trio’s music is a sort of tightrope dance between classical, folk, and world music orchestrated by three outspoken characters who constantly challenge and complement each other musically. The recognizability of Hartwin’s melodies, combined with the driving and surprising arrangements by Flavia & Pavel, form a dazzling play of sounds you can discover live during a concert by this ‘atypical’ trio.

“Duncan Ritchie is an accordionist, performer, composer, and arranger. He has performed across the UK, including at renowned festivals like Celtic Connections. Duncan’s dedication to composing and arranging has earned him recognition, with his work featured on BBC’s “Travelling Folk.” in 2024. Duncan is a member of “Alba Challah,” a quasi-folk band, who have had significant success across Scotland since forming in 2021.  In 2023, he had the honor of being invited to play in Martyn Bennett’s “Grit Orchestra” in Edinburgh, alongside guest Nicola Benedetti. Having recently completed his Bachelor’s degree in Traditional Music, he is now pursuing a Master’s degree at the prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.  Duncan is also a regular session host in Glasgow’s vibrant music scene.”