From East Africa to Atlantic Islands: New Artists Announced

The Baltic’s leading folk event, Viljandi Folk Music Festival, is adding six new artists to its 2026 programme, reflecting this year’s theme, “To Each Their Own Instrument,” and showcasing distinctive regional traditions and playing styles.

The 33rd Viljandi Folk Music Festival will take place from 23 to 26 July in Viljandi, Estonia, featuring nearly 60 artists across four days. The latest international additions to the programme include The Zawose Queens, Nancy Vieira, and Groupa.

Festival director Ando Kiviberg promises the programme will be exciting and diverse. “We searched the world for music cultures featuring special folk instruments, and found remarkable artists. For the first time, Viljandi will host performers from Tanzania – The Zawose Queens - who combine rhythmic, dance-like singing with instruments such as the chizeze fiddle, the illimba thumb piano, and ngoma drums,” describes Kiviberg.

Singer Nancy Vieira from Cape Verde will introduce morna in Viljandi – a musical style included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list that has not previously been heard at the festival. Vieira’s music centres on the voice as a direct and emotional means of expression, carrying both longing and strength.

One of the most important pioneers of Nordic traditional music, the Swedish/Norwegian trio Groupa, will present old melodies, improvisation, and unique instruments, including percussion made from natural materials.

Among Estonian artists, Zetod will take the stage, celebrating their 23rd year of activity in 2026, along with Trifoor, winner of the “Young Folk Band 2025” title, and OOPUS, whose third studio album Reivlender was released this week.

Previously confirmed performers for this year’s festival include Amy Laurenson (UK), HrayBery (PL/UA), and Duo Ruut. More artists from Estonia and abroad will be added to the programme in spring.

Recognised as one of Northern Europe’s most influential folk music events, the Viljandi Folk Music Festival takes place on nine stages and attracts tens of thousands of visitors each summer. The theme of the 33rd festival, “To Each Their Own Instrument,” has inspired the organisers to feature artists with both unique and traditional instruments.