Nordic Voices to Perform at Weill Hall, 2/2

Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY) presents Nordic Voices, a six-voice a cappella ensemble from Norway, acclaimed around the world for its technical brilliance and compelling programming. For their performance as part of DCINY's Distinguished Concerts Artist Series, Nordic Voices performs a range of music from Dufay to Ligeti to contemporary Norwegian composer Lasse Thoresen. The concert takes place on Sunday, February 2 at 7:30pm at Weill Recital Hall.

In performance from Kyoto to New York, and from Munich to Toronto, Nordic Voices has plied a wide spectrum of musical expression, from plainchant to new works commissioned from leading Norwegian composers, including both the most sacred of religious texts and the decidedly profane. The Washington Post said: "Such mesmerizing talent is rare ... Whatever language, it was the group's astonishing range of sonic vocabulary ... that thrilled the senses and sent an emotional message no listener could miss."

Working closely with Norwegian composer Lasse Thoresen, Nordic Voices and has developed a unique vocal style that integrates elements of Norwegian folk singing, micro-tonality, and spectral harmony. His Solbøn, a prayer to the sun, is one of the ensemble's signature pieces. His fellow Norwegian, Henrik Ødegaard, has also worked closely with Nordic Voices and further explored extended techniques and strange timbres in his O magnum mysterium.

Another highlight of the concert program is György Ligeti's "Nonsense Madrigals," settings from Alice in Wonderland. Lewis Carroll's comically absurd texts are matched with musical pranks and bizarre vocal effects. Equally splendid vocal effects - a whole catalogue of bird songs - can be heard in the madrigal Les Oiseaux des Chants by 16th Century French composer Clement Jannequin. Also deeply attached to the emotional splendor of the 6-part vocal polyphony of the Renaissance, Nordic Voices will perform laments by Thomás Luis de Victoria.

Nordic Voices is: Tone Braaten and Ingrid Hanken, sopranos; Ebba Rydh, mezzo-soprano; tenor Per Kristian Amundrød; baritone Frank Havrøy; and Trond Olav Reinholdtsen, bass.

Founded by Iris Derke (General Director) and Jonathan Griffith (Artistic Director and Principal Conductor) Distinguished Concerts International is driven by passion and innovative vision. Next in the Distinguished Concerts Artist series at Weill Hall is a cappella NEXT on Friday, March 21.

Tickets: www.carnegiehall.org or 212-247-7800 or in person at the Carnegie Hall Box Office

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