We’re thrilled to welcome MALIN back to Mulligans! This exceptional quartet brings a vibrant and authentic take on Irish traditional music, blending deep roots with fresh creativity.


Malin speelt een gevarieerd programma van vooral Ierse tunes. Het geluid van de band wordt in grote mate bepaald door Judith Kolen (fiddle) en Mariëtte van Kooten (trekharmonica). Zij ontmoetten elkaar al in de 90-er jaren in de sessies in co. Donegal (Ierland). Daar leerden zij veel highlands, barndances en natuurlijk de jigs en reels uit die streek. De dames bouwden een sterke band op met lokale muzikanten. In de sessies in Amsterdam ontmoetten zij Theo Burghouts en Onno Kuipers. Hun snarenwerk vermengde verrassend eenvoudig tot een mooie en weemoedige klank die zo typisch is voor Ierse muziek.

Malin plays a varied program of mainly Irish tunes. The sound of the band is largely determined by Judith Kolen (fiddle) and Mariëtte van Kooten (accordion). They met in the 90's in the sessions in co. Donegal (Ireland). There they learned a lot of highlands, barn dances and of course the jigs and reels from that region. The ladies built a strong bond with local musicians. In the sessions in Amsterdam they met Theo Burghouts and Onno Kuipers. Their string work blended surprisingly simply into a beautiful and melancholic sound that is so typical of Irish music.


  • Judith Kolen (fiddle) – A highly respected musician in the Dutch folk scene, Judith’s fiddle playing combines precision and passion, drawing on years of experience performing Irish and European traditional music.
  • Mariëtte van Kooten (accordion) – Known for her rich, expressive style, Mariëtte adds warmth and rhythmic drive to MALIN’s sound. Her background spans Irish, Breton, and other folk traditions, making her a versatile and dynamic player.
  • Theo Burghouts (Irish bouzouki, guitar) – A multi-instrumentalist and seasoned performer, Theo brings a strong rhythmic foundation and melodic flair to the group, contributing both accompaniment and creative arrangements.
  • Onno Kuipers (accordion, guitar, mandolin, trekharmonica) – A master of traditional dance music, Onno is celebrated for his energetic playing and deep knowledge of folk traditions. His experience ensures MALIN’s music is both authentic and full of life.

Together, MALIN creates a rich tapestry of sound—lively tunes, soulful melodies, and the unmistakable spirit of Irish music. Don’t miss this chance to experience them live!

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