The University of Georgia Performing Arts Center is excited to host Symbio, the renowned Swedish electro-folk duo, for both an evening show and afternoon discussions on Sept. 25. These activities are part of the Nordic Dream: Voices from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden series, spotlighting outstanding Scandinavian talents.
Winners of the Band of the Year title at the Swedish Folk & World Music Gala, Symbio fuses the unusual combination of accordion and hurdy-gurdy — a historic, hand-operated string instrument — with contemporary electronic elements. The duo delivers electrifying performances that feel both personal and cinematic. Their melodies, founded on rhythm, drone, and evolving soundscapes, transition from fragile, ethereal segments to intense, pulsating beats.
Commence the experience with a personal complimentary workshop at Ramsey Concert Hall, beginning at 12:45 p.m. Participants will enjoy a unique behind-the-scenes view as musicians Johannes Geworkian Hellman (hurdy-gurdy, electronics) and LarsEmil Öjeberget (accordion, stomp box, electronics) share insights about their creative journey, instruments, and Swedish cultural heritage. This session welcomes the public, with no ticket necessary.
At 7:30 p.m., attention shifts back to Ramsey Concert Hall for a full-length, ticketed concert by Symbio. The duo’s lyrical fusion of acoustic instruments and ambient electronics crafts a vivid and immersive musical experience — perfectly in tune with the PAC’s mission to showcase culturally substantial and emotionally impactful performances.
Established during an impromptu jam session in 2011, Symbio swiftly formed a creative bond that has propelled their international acclaim. Presently, they are celebrated as one of the standout voices in modern Nordic folk and world music, having toured extensively throughout Europe and North America.
Their album “Endeavour” was awarded best album of the year at the Swedish Folk & World Music Awards 2023, garnering high acclaim for its cinematic narrative and emotional depth. In the same year’s events, Symbio was chosen as an official showcase artist at WOMEX, the esteemed World Music Expo.
Three ways to obtain tickets
- Buy tickets online at pac.uga.edu.
- Contact the Performing Arts Center box office at 706-542-4400, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Drop by the UGA Performing Arts Center box office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Five-minute parking is accessible in the drop-off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or collecting tickets.)
Audience members are invited to assemble their own series of three or more performances for a 10% discount. UGA Presents single tickets begin at just $30 with promo code PAC30, while UGA student tickets are available for $15.
Details regarding accessibility and venue facilities can be found on the PAC website. Parking is complimentary.
For more information about all UGA Performing Arts Center events, visit pac.uga.edu.
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