Helena Hallberg
Born to Swedish parents in picturesque Zürich, Switzerland, Helena Hallberg's journey as an artist is as unique and multifaceted as her background.
2025 Kerrville New Folk Finalist Helena Hallberg has showcased her artistry on national stages, including a memorable performance of ABBA's "Dancing Queen" with the American Pops Orchestra at the Coolidge Auditorium in the Library of Congress, and an appearance at the Atlantic Council's Distinguished Leadership Awards honoring folk icon Judy Collins.
Hallberg honed her craft at iconic New York City venues like Rockwood Music Hall, The Bitter End and Bowery Electric, before making her Nashville debut at The Bluebird Café, where she is now based.
Her path took an exciting turn when she fell in love with American Folk music and its traditional instruments. Frequently performing with her beloved Appalachian dulcimer, Henrietta, she skillfully weaves her catchy melodies into the musical fabric of her songs.
Described as "Joni Mitchell meets ABBA," her sound has evolved into a sophisticated blend of Folk, Americana, and Indie; guiding her listeners through the complexities of mental health, female empowerment, and multiculturalism that is marked by compelling storytelling and the unique tone of her Appalachian dulcimer.
Originally a trained jazz and theatre vocalist, Hallberg's musical education includes the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) and Manhattan School of Music, as well as BerkleeNYC, where she completed a MA in Creative Technology as a part of its inaugural class at Power Station in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan.
Garnering increasing recognition as a producer within Folk and Americana, she has been a panelist on the subject at both Folk Alliance International and Americanafest. Hallberg is a member of the Nashville Chapter of the Recording Academy (GRAMMYs®).
Drawing from her extensive musical background, she enjoys guiding creatives through the recording process, helping them translate their artistic vision into a polished and resonant final product they can be proud of. See the Helena Hallberg producing page for discography.
Hallberg regularly tours in Europe and the US and feels her polyglotism fuels her love of folk music, allowing her to naturally incorporate her international experiences into her songs and arrangements. She maintains a presence on YouTube, sharing both music and multicultural content.