Alterne

Alterne is a Danish–Estonian–Belgian dream folk trio that creates atmospheric musical landscapes where tradition meets innovation. The group consists of Danish singer Ida Marie Jessen, Belgian violinist Oscar Beerten, and Estonian accordionist Maimu Jõgeda. Using instruments such as violin, Norwegian Hardanger fiddle, Finnish kantele, accordion, guitar, stomp box and vocals, the trio crafts harmonious melodies, repetitive motifs, and virtuosic passages that support the musical stories sung in Danish.

Their debut album, released in spring 2024 on GO’ Danish Folk Music, received international acclaim. RootsWorld wrote: “Alterne have made an astonishingly assured, ambitious debut, and created a unique, pan-European sound.” The trio manages to capture the Nordic melancholy and tone while adding fresh, new elements.

Alterne is currently working on their second album, expected to be released in 2026, accompanied by a music video and singles. The album explores new sounds, moods, and colors, with a focus on multiple rhythmic layers, while preserving and strengthening the trio’s characteristic dreamy sound.

The trio was formed during their studies at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki and has since developed a unique style that fuses folk, pop, and ambient music with a clear rhythmic pulse. Alterne has performed at festivals, venues, and showcases across Europe, including FolkBaltica (DK/DE), Musik over Præstø Fjord (DK), Lõikuspidu (EST), Bijloke (BE), Merode (BE), Boglart (HU), Festival Dranouter (BE) and the Global Music Showcase organized by Cluster (BE).

Ida Marie Jessen – Kantele, voice
Oscar Beerten – Viool, hardanger fiddle
Maimu Jõgeda – Accordion, stomp box