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Discover the Nyckelharpa Aboard the Longship
Step aboard the Viking longship and immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of one of Scandinavia's most distinctive traditional instruments.
Led by acclaimed folk musicians Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, this hands-on workshop offers a rare opportunity to discover the nyckelharpa—the beautiful Swedish keyed fiddle renowned for its rich, resonant sound and centuries of Nordic musical heritage. Vicki is one of the UK's leading nyckelharpa players and educators, introducing countless musicians to this remarkable instrument through workshops and festivals across the country.
You'll begin by learning about the history and workings of the nyckelharpa before having the chance to try one for yourself. With instruments provided and expert guidance throughout, participants will learn the basics of playing and work together to perform a simple traditional tune.
Whether you're a musician looking to explore a new instrument or simply curious about Nordic music and culture, this workshop offers a memorable and welcoming introduction. No previous musical experience is required.
Set against the unique backdrop of the longship, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Valhalla Viking Festival, this is more than a workshop—it's a chance to experience a living piece of Scandinavian musical tradition.
Workshop Details
- Location: Viking Longship (It's 15m long, you can't miss it)
- Suitable for complete beginners
- Instruments provided
- No previous musical experience necessary
- Spaces are limited due to the number of instruments available
- Includes a personalised participation certificate hand written in runic script using a goose quill
Join Vicki and Jonny for a truly unforgettable musical voyage and discover why the nyckelharpa has captivated audiences and musicians for generations.
Please select from the drop down menu the time slot you'd like to be booked for on Friday 24th of July 2026.
T&Cs
You must be 16 or older to join this workshop. If you are underage, you will need to be accompanied by an adult.
Please arrive in time so you can be checked in for the workshop before the start time.
Vicki Swan reserves the right to deny participation to anyone she deems unsuitable to take part due to, but not limited to, attitude, state of sobriety, age or ability to complete the activity. If you are deemed unsuitable to participate, you will not receive a refund so please arrive in an adequate state to be a part of this and in time for your time slot as missing the start time does not entitle you to a later session, you must participate at the session you pre-booked.
You must hold a valid Festival ticket for the day you are joining the workshop. You cannot attend any workshops without a ticket that gains you entrance to the festival on the given day. The fee is only for the activity itself.
Vicki will have your name and order details on a sheet with her. You will not receive a ticket for this workshop, you just need to check in with her before the start of the session. current location of the workshop will be by the woodland temple. If this changes, you will be notified by email, you can also ask for directions at the entrance tent on the day if you have missed the email in the unlikely case of the workshop location moving location from the woodland temple.