Accordion music is rarely described as innovative and fresh but Estonian musician and composer Tuulikki Bartosik confounds expectations. From introspective solos to collaborations with musicians around the world, her inspiration is rooted in her native Estonia’s Võrumaa region. Tuulikki draws creative energy from the people and places she encounters and seeks to capture this in her adventurous music. Tuulikki’s musical imagination is expansive and brave exploring ways to adapt her accordion to different surroundings – from the concert hall to the open-air festival. Drawing inspiration from her beloved forests in South Estonia she continues to push musical boundaries. Being open minded and having an innovative approach both as a composer and musician, Tuulikki Bartosik is one of the leading contemporary accordionists in the world.
Her latest projects include playing with the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra and collaboration between her Estonian Folk Chamber Orchestra and renowned conductor Kristjan Järvi. Accordionquintet Accordionesse featuring Tuulikki, Hannah James, Karen Tweed, Mairearad Green and Teija Niku debuted at Celtic Connections festival in 2018. Tuulikki has released five albums and an EP in Europe and Japan, she tours actively in different parts of Europe and Japan.
“Tuulikki is at her best when just playing and improvising on her accordion; the music feels relaxed, spontaneous, dreamy, it’s music for the soul.”
