The world beyond the Arctic Circle is a realm like no other – vast expanses, majestic mountains and crystal-clear fjords define its breathtaking beauty. The Norwegian violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing has captured these landscapes in music, performing alongside conductor Nicolò Foron and the Arctic Philharmonic, the world’s northernmost professional orchestra. Their programme combines Nordic classics from composers like Grieg and Rautavaara with specially commissioned pieces by film composers including Frode Fjellheim (title song to »Frozen«) and Jacob Shea (»Planet Earth II«).
Eldbjørg Hemsing describes the programme as »film music for the concert hall or a soundtrack for an inner journey«. The violinist seeks to give voice to her Norwegian homeland, challenging misconceptions: »It’s very easy to think about the Arctic as a rugged, uninhabitable place, but in fact it is a region of stunning beauty that is full of life and shows how everything is connected in fragile cycles. With this project I wanted to create a lush, majestic soundscape that pays tribute to the beauty of it all, and raise awareness for the urgent threats posed by climate change.«
Accompanied by the Arctic Philharmonic, based in Bodø and Tromsø, the performance is deeply rooted in Norwegian and Nordic traditions. »Arctic« also shines a spotlight on the musical heritage of the Sámi people, who have lived in harmony with the landscape of the Arctic Circle for centuries. With atmospheric lighting and thoughtful narration, the concert becomes an immersive journey into the magic of the polar night and endless Arctic daylight.
PERFORMERS
Arctic Philharmonic orchestra
Eldbjørg Hemsing violin
Nicolò Foton conductor
PROGRAM
Lasse Thoresen
Bare hvitt (Only White)
Einojuhani Rautavaara
Cantus Arcticus, Op. 61
Henning Sommerro
Vårsøg (Spring Search)
Selim Palmgren
Snöflingor (Snowflakes), Op. 57/2
Frode Fjellheim
Under the Arctic Moon
Einojuhani Rautavaara
Whispering
Edvard Grieg
Våren (Last Spring)
Jacob Shea
The Arctic Suite (excerpts)
