This concert is about embracing the cosiness of the Danish concept of ‘Hygge’ and starting the New Year with time to reflect on our well-being and connect with great music. There are many notable Scandinavian composers, with each country having a rich musical tradition. and we are highlighting just some.
As one of the best places to see the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis, we couldn’t leave them out and Ēriks Ešenvalds piece Northern Lights captures their beauty through its musical textures and harmonies. Ola Gjeilo draws inspiration from his Norwegian heritage and the natural landscapes of his homeland in Unicornis Captivatur and a sense of serenity surrounds his Sanctus. Evoking calm and introspection Edvard Grieg, also Norwegian, combines lyrical beauty with rich expressive harmony in Hvad est du dog skjøn while Swedish composer Otto Olson invites a sense of peace and reflection with his setting of Ave Maris Stella. From the Danish Composer Carl Nielsen, Dominus Regit Me guides and comforts listeners with the words of Psalm 23.
Come and join us for a cosy evening of great music, hot drinks and appreciating the moment.
Programme:
- O Salutaris hostia – Eric Ešenvalds – Latvia
- Ave Maris Stella – Otto Olsson – Sweden
- Motet; Dominus regit me – Carl Nielsen – Denmark
- Piano Duet – Norwegian Dance – Grieg – Norway
- Es ist ein ros entsprungen – Praetorius / Sandstrom – Sweden
- The Gift to Sing – Kim André Arnesen – Norway
- Piano Duet – Peer Gynt – Grieg
- How fair is thy Face – Edvard Grieg – Norway
- Psalm 120 – Otto Olsson – Sweden
Intermission
- Northern Lights (glasses, chimes) – Eric Ešenvalds – Latvia
- Ave Maris Stella – Edvard Grieg – Norway
- Immortal Bach – Knut Nystedt after JSB
- Ehtoohymni (Evening Hymn) – Einojuhani Rautavaara – Finland
- Sanctus – Ola Gjeilo – Norway
- Piano duet – 3 Latvian folksongs – Harry Ore
- My flame the song + piano – Kim André Arnesen – Norway
- Unicornis Captivatur – Ola Gjello – Norway
| St Albans Chamber Choir |
| United Reformed Church |
| Homewood Road, St Albans, AL1 4BH |
| Saturday 18 Jan 2025 |
| 5pm |