Duo RuutEE

Their unique sound ties together a single Estonian zither and two distinct voices. Inspired by the traditions of their heritage, they draw influence from both the beliefs of different cultures and their own contemporary and emotive songwriting. Duo Ruut's music is minimalist at its core but packed with new and imaginative ideas. This single instrument between Ann-Lisett Rebane and Katariina Kivi creates what Mojo called "a band-sized sound". They stand either side of the zither, each plucking and strumming its strings and sometimes tapping its body for percussive purposes, accompanied by ethereal voices which slowly draw you into their world.

Duo Ruut has quickly transcended their home country, touring the world in more than 20 countries at prestigious festivals and venues such as Glastonbury, ESNS, Womex, Celtic Connections, Womad UK, Trans Musicales, and Elbphilharmonie. Their music has been supported by international media such as KEXP, BBC, Mojo, The Guardian, Songlines, FIP Radio, and RFI.

Duo Ruut has recently released their second album, Ilmateade (The Weather Report), which tells stories from different times, different people, and most of all, from different weathers. Using Estonian traditional texts as song lyrics, almost every song touches on the topic of weather: some very straightforward, others deep and metaphorical. The album has received international acclaim, including The Guardian (Folk Album of the Month), FIP Radio (Focus Album of the Month), and excellent reviews by Télérama and Rolling Stone. Duo Ruut was recently awarded Artist of the Year at the Estonian Ethno Music Awards 2025 and nominated for the German Record Critics' Award Quarterly Critic's Choice.