We are Oak Bell, five musicians from across Europe — France, Germany, Ireland and the UK — brought together by a shared love of traditional music.
We formed in May 2025, most of us having met at Heiners Folk session in Berlin-Neukölln.
We arrange songs for four voices, and five instruments (accordion, two guitars, violin, and double bass), and our repertoire spans many languages.
The members
Delphine (France)
voice and accordion
I grew up in Brittany surrounded by fest-noz and Celtic music. Over time, I explored new sounds, from classical and folk rock to blues, Celtic punk, and punk rock.
As a music therapist, I believe music is a language beyond words, a bridge between people and emotions. Singing in many languages feels like setting sail toward new horizons, inviting everyone to journey together through sound and soul.
Bianca (France)
voice and guitar
Born in Paris, I started out in theater. I moved to Berlin in 2011 and began singing in different musical projects, from noise and free improvisation to pop-rock-soul cover bands. Along the way, my training at the Roy Hart Voice Center helped me explore what the voice can do. Then one Tuesday night, I stumbled into a folk session and remembered how much I love those old songs.
Guy (UK)
voice and guitar
I play a ‘guitar’ and sing using my ‘voice’. I play ‘folk’ songs.
I very much enjoy being a part of this ‘band’ and love to play with all of its members
(except Chris)
Kellie (Ireland)
voice and violin/viola
Born in Dublin, my path led me through the structured beauty of classical violin and viola, weaving harmonies within orchestras and chamber ensembles. After completing my studies in classical composition, I moved to Berlin and my heart began to stir toward something earthier, more ancient: the world of folk music. It was as though my spirit remembered a melody it had never learned, but somehow always known. Folk music is not written on paper, but in the hearts of the people passed from soul to soul, like a flame that never dies.
Chris (Germany/UK)
double bass
I am a terrible person. I have poor personal hygiene, I am unreliable and I need a haircut. I have played music with Guy for many years, despite his barely-disguised loathing for me.*
*Written by Chris**
**Definitely not written by Guy
Thank you @thetravellingstage for the pictures