Music, memories, and a mission

By Zada Engen

In the fall of 2004, a hand-written sign posted at the Sons of Norway completely changed the ways of Scandinavian music in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Lynne Bommesmo and Marilyn Jones hung up the notice on the behalf of a small group of musicians. Some knew the music well, but most were just beginners. Despite the difference in skill levels, there was one thing uniting everyone together – the strong desire to learn the accordion together and to carry on their Scandinavian heritage.

The Kringen Accordion Ban includes: Front row: Sharon Busche of Fargo, Linda Gylland of Fargo, Bobbie Henderson of Moorhead; Second row: Barbara Olive of Fargo, Jake Gust of Fargo, Del Ray Sanders of Fargo, Jay Goos of Fargo, Carol Haarsager of Fargo, Carolyn Troide of Fertile, Minn., Byron Troide of Fertile, Minn. Not pictured: Brad Schmidt of West Fargo, Avis Ohman. Contributed photo

What started out as just a few informal lessons in the back of a Sons of Norway dining room very rapidly overgrew the card tables. Lessons began to migrate from Thursday evenings to Monday nights in the ballroom, and with each session, the circle grew larger and larger. New friendships were formed, and the Kringen Accordion Band had found its beat.

The band’s music identity is practically inseparable from its Scandinavian roots. Polkas, waltzes, and two-step dances serve as the anchor for the set lists of melodies created. 

“The songs the Kringen band performs are for your listening enjoyment... a variety of melodies that will evoke fond memories of our Nordic heritage,” Carol Haarsager of Fargo said.

Kringen band performances cater to a wide variety of audiences in retirement homes, fairs, holiday and church celebrations, and even some high-profile TV, including the Polka Spotlight TV show.

They have completed a total of 10 recording sessions for the Polka Spotlight TV Show, held at the Bonanzaville, Hjemkomst Scandinavian Festival, and represented Kringen Lodge at the Sons of Norway Kringen Banner, very proudly showing their presence wherever the music plays.

Over the years, the Kringen ensemble has donated to several notable charities, including Feed My Starving Children, The Salvation Army, Carol Juven Memorial Fund, and the Fargo Police Department’s aid fund. Concerts at Sons of Norway also serve as fundraising events, with all proceeds covering travel, meals, and other miscellaneous operational costs for the band members.

“All participants have been truly blessed with being a part of togetherness, cooperation, friendship, and dedication in performing and promoting music,” Carol said.

Linda Gylland of Fargo has an especially crucial presence with leading the accordion lessons, as well as welcoming newcomers and ensuring the beat stays steady. Del Sanders and Jay Goos, both of Fargo, have kept the traditions of banjo and guitar alive alongside the accordions as well. Sharon Busche of Fargo serves as the band’s treasurer and performance coordinator, taking care of all things finance and managing the calendar. The Kringen Lodge has been an excellent partner to work with, offering space for the group to rehearse and connect.

“As we continue on the 22-year accordion journey, we are so thankful for the beautiful environment of the Kringen Lodge that allows us to practice and perform songs of our heritage on their premises,” Carol said.

After two decades, the ensemble hasn’t lost the spark. All of the wonders, dreams, and joys from the first gathering ensure the sense that music holds its most power when it is shared with others to empower them.

“The Kringen Accordion Band would like to extend its most sincere gratitude and appreciation to all of its band members, past or present, who have donated their time and talents to make our performative music more enjoyable. Many thanks!” Carol said.