Myllärit (The Millers) were a dynamic brisk vocal and instrumental folk band from Russian Karelia. The group came together in 1992, an outgrowth of the pairing of accordionist Zobnev -described as "a world-class accordionist" in Russian Life's series titled "100 Young Russians to Watch."- with Alexander Bykadorov, who had traveled Europe together playing Karelian and Russian folk music in the streets. The unique sound of Myllärit combines traditional music and poetry of Karelia
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Myllärit (The Millers) were a dynamic brisk vocal and instrumental folk band from Russian Karelia. The group came together in 1992, an outgrowth of the pairing of accordionist Zobnev -described as "a world-class accordionist" in Russian Life's series titled "100 Young Russians to Watch."- with Alexander Bykadorov, who had traveled Europe together playing Karelian and Russian folk music in the streets. The unique sound of Myllärit combines traditional music and poetry of Karelia, the White Sea, Olonets and Ladoga regions, and also Russian songs of the Trans-Onega region, with elements of rock, jazz and world music. Thus, fitting them to suit their more modern style. Besides, the group performs songs of the Ingria ( St.-Petersburg region ) in the local Ingric dialect of the Finnish language. "Karelia represents a rich mixture of so many different cultures," said Zobnev. "Our rather severe climatic conditions help to hone this musical style. It is the music of the Russian pomors (White Sea coast natives) and Finnish and Karelian songs. It all mixes together and provides food for Myllärit." Myllärit achieve their main impact on stage with great talent and humour. They were outstanding live performers. Their discography includes six albums. Myllärit were also very active locally in their hometown Petrozavodsk, the capital of the Republic of Karelia, where they support and promote local bands through the Myllärit Center of Musical Initiatives and the organisation of musical events, such as the annual Petrozavodsk Folk Marathon. These last years, they have taken part in many festivals like Koskis, Kaustinen, Haapavesi, Ugrijuhlat, Faces, Jutajaiset, Garage Fest, Folklandia, Kihaus, Hekajuhlat, Taiga Festival (Finland) Celtic Connections, Fringe Festival (Scotland) Finnish Music Festival, FinnGrandFest, Finlandia Festival, Duluht International Folk (USA),Watergate Festival (Estonia), Rockbridge, Carelian Faces, Folk Marathon, Festival of Modern Folk Music (Russia), Poborina Folk, Folkesi (Spain). Sergei Zobnev, one of the founders, accordionist and director of the band, left in 2008. Alexander Bykadorov passed away in 2010. After his death, Myllärit decided to split up.
