Australian folk trio Apolline (pronounced Apo-leen) is an award winning neo-trad band whose intricate arrangements and high-quality performances have stunned audiences since their debut. Known for their creative and nonconformist style, the band utilises a wide range of musical influences such as jazz, Scandinavian folk and a healthy dose of Eurovision to inspire an innovative sound like no other. Whether it be fiery, quick-paced reels or intimate and slow ayres, the group’s technical artistry and creativity consistently wows audiences. Within their repertoire of tune arrangements, Apolline’s music also features original melodies and songs that showcase the member’s deep connection to the music they create and perform.

Growing up on Wurrundjeri Country in Naarm/Melbourne, members Tess (cello), Luisa (fiddle) and Laura (bass) grew up in families already greatly influenced by music. Sisters Tess and Luisa Hickey were exposed to the folk scene in 2011, slowly and steadily falling in love with the musical traditions. Tess and Luisa met Laura Heaney during high school when they played in the Jazz and Symphonic bands together. Before long they inducted her into Melbourne’s thriving folk scene. From then the girls start played together regularly, before making their formal festival debut at the National Celtic Folk Festival in 2022.

In their spare time, Apolline enjoys a hot cup of tea while discussing the latest knitting trends, regular rehearsal breaks to retrieve snacks and, of course, listening to Tess talk endlessly about Zelda and Minecraft.