Kristina Olsen is one of the most entertaining and compelling performers on the international acoustic circuit. A superb multi-instrumentalist (acoustic guitar, steel-body slide guitar, saxophone, concertina, banjo, mandolin and piano) as well as an award-winning songwriter with a big bluesy voice, Kristina has audiences around the world coming back for more. Her mix of powerful songs range from sassy bottleneck blues to lilting ballads to swing jazz to raunch and roll (and hilarious storytelling).

Born and raised in San Francisco during the 60's, her approach to music and life was formed by an environment of cultural expression, social activism and diverse musical influences. Olsen has released thirteen recordings, collaborated with musicians all over the world, is a long-time musical partner with Australian cellist Peter Grayling, and her newest project is developing chorale arrangements of her songs for local choirs. Olsen’s songs have been covered by respected artists such as Eric Bibb, Fairport Convention, and Mary Coughlan. Olsen has also worked as a session musician on numerous artist’s albums including playing the hammered dulcimer for Michelle Shocked and touring as Mary Coughlan’s guitarist.

Olsen is the modern day troubadour, touring around the world up to ten months a year, and when not performing, she teaches songwriting and slide guitar for musicians at adult music camps, is a frequent contributor to Acoustic Guitar magazine and in 2020 graduated from Berklee College of Music with a dual major in guitar and orchestration / arranging.

Kristina Olsen has been a long-time friend of the festival, first performing at BMMF in 1998!