Max Baillie and the internationally acclaimed Lodestar Trio draw together Nordic folk music with classical traditions from Bach to Bartók. The group features three star players with a unique combination of sounds: the magical Scandinavian folk instruments, the Swedish nyckelharpa and Norwegian hardanger fiddle, alongside the violin. The trio create a unique sonic world where Baroque elegance meets the rhythmic drive and improvisatory spirit of Scandinavian and Eastern European folk traditions.

Since forming in 2018, the group has performed in 13 countries, with appearances including a debut at the Barbican in 2024 and broadcasts on Belgian national radio from the Bruges Concertgebouw. Regularly featured on BBC Radio 3, they are celebrated for their inventive re-imaginings of works by Bach, Lully, Merula and Couperin, alongside traditional Nordic repertoire, all delivered with infectious energy, virtuosity and joy.

For this special Ronnie Scott’s Classical appearance, they are joined by acclaimed Armenian-American viola da gamba player Lucine Musaelian. Renowned for her expressive artistry and cross-border collaborations, she performs internationally with ensembles including Idrisi Ensemble and Bellot Ensemble, part of the BBC New Generation Baroque Ensemble scheme (2025–27).