Download The Devil's Instrument broadcast premiere flyer.
GRANITE FALLS, Minn. -- A new documentary exploring the lore, craft and haunting music of the Hardanger fiddle will air on Thursday, February 13 at 7 p.m. on Pioneer PBS. The program will be repeated on Sunday February 16 at 7 p.m. and Monday February 17 at 1:30 p.m. Pioneer PBS Passport members will be able to view the documentary online at www.pioneer.org/passport.
The Devil’s Instrument is a new documentary by Pioneer PBS producer Dana Conroy with videography by Ben Dempcy and Kristofor Gieske captured during a 10-day trip to Norway in August 2019. Edited by Kevin Russell, the film explores the culture surrounding the Hardanger fiddle and interviews woodworkers who make the fiddle, the musicians who play it and the dancers who spin to it against the backdrop of the gorgeous Norwegian landscape.
“The Devil’s Instrument” was the name given to the fiddle by some religious leaders who thought there was no place in the church for such an instrument since it was used for weddings, dances and gatherings where alcohol and merriment ensued.
About Pioneer PBS
Established in 1966, Pioneer PBS is an award-winning, viewer-supported television station dedicated to sharing local stories of the region with the world. For more information visit: www.pioneer.org.