Renee plays traditional Scandinavian music on the nyckelharpa, an instrument that has existed in various forms for over 700 years. She effortlessly captures the rustic charm and ethereal essence of the Nordic tradition. Her dedication to the nyckelharpa and traditional Swedish folk music earned her a prestigious fellowship from the American Scandinavian Foundation in 2022, allowing her to study extensively under master nyckelharpist Cajsa Ekstav. Renee served as the Musician-in-Residence at the UW-Madison Nordic Folklife Department in 2024, where she researched first-generation Swedish immigrant musicians and created an online collection of their legacies titled, “Nordic Newcomers” She also began a collection of Upper Midwest Scandinavian Allspel tunes to facilitate the learning and preservation of this rich musical tradition.

A versatile collaborator, Renee lends her talent to a diverse array of musical projects throughout the northern heartland area, ranging from intercultural and intergenerational bands to educational presentations, storytelling performances, and numerous workshops aimed at fostering interest, participation, and connection to Scandinavian folk music.

The Skandibears feature the incredible talents of Dan Newton (Cafe Accordion Orchestra and Honky Tonk Jump) on accordion, Tom Klein on uilleann pipes and cittern, and Elizabeth Rowan on accordion and washboard. This ensemble has captivated audiences at venues such as the American Swedish Institute, Norsk Høstfest, the Duluth Stämman, and the Scandinavian Social Dance in the Twin Cities. A pawsitively roarin’ and beary good musical experience.