Tesni is the recording name used by Eve Hancock, an indie folk singer-songwriter originally from South Wales and now based in Manchester. The name is a Welsh word meaning warmth from the sun. Tesni’s songs combine evocative vocals, dynamic instrumentation and dramatic arrangements, with lyrics and melodies centred on vulnerability, curiosity and wonder.

Formation and live line-up

The project forms in late 2021 after two years of writing and producing during lockdown. Hancock performs with a six-piece band, and the group plays acoustic-based shows around Manchester.

Musical style

Tesni’s sound is described as an acoustic one built around soulful vocals, with trumpet and violin adding to the melodic arrangements. Alongside singing, Hancock plays guitar and piano and contributes backing vocals.

Other work

Outside Tesni, Hancock performs live with Yasmin Coe, playing guitar and piano and providing backing vocals. Since April 2024, she also appears as a singer and multi-instrumentalist in catbandcat.