Stian Carstensen

Stian Carstensen is a multi-instrumentalist whose boundless curiosity has taken him from the accordion to just about every stringed instrument you can think of—and some you probably can't.

Born on January 5, 1971, in Eidsvoll, Norway, Stian picked up the accordion at the age of nine and never really put it down. Taught by his father and later a classical teacher, he quickly gained recognition, playing on Norwegian TV and touring America while still young. Though he briefly switched to electric guitar as a teenager, Stian found his true calling when he dove into jazz and Balkan folk music, blending the two into something truly unique.

During his time at Trondheim Musikkonservatorium, Stian co-founded Farmers Market in 1991. What started as a free jazz quintet took a sharp turn when the band discovered a Bulgarian folk tune in 11/16 time. That moment sparked Stian’s lifelong love for Balkan music, leading him on a journey to Bulgaria to study and perform with local musicians. The band's first live record, *Speed/Balkan/Boogie*, is a testament to this musical adventure.

In addition to his work with Farmers Market, Stian has explored a dizzying array of genres—from bluegrass to experimental jazz—and collaborated with musicians from around the world. Whether he’s playing the accordion, banjo, kaval, or bagpipes, Stian’s music is always infused with the same unrelenting passion that started in the backseat of his father's car on the way to school.