HEIÐA ÁRNADÓTTIR

The music I am most passionate about performing is contemporary music. During my studies in the Netherlands, I had the incredible opportunity to perform a wide range of contemporary works. One of the highlights of my career has been serving as an artist in residence at the Dark Music Days festival for three consecutive years. This experience allowed me to deepen my expertise in working with the voice in contemporary music, as well as collaborate closely with composers who wrote pieces specifically tailored to my voice.

The theme of my upcoming concerts revolves around the solstices and equinoxes, 

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March 20 - Spring Equinox I at 20:00
Varstu búinn að vera að reyna að ná í mig  - Guðmundur Steinn Gunnarsson

"The circle, the earth’s ellipse, the seasons, and the meeting of twilight and light are major themes in my work. Therefore, it is only fitting to premiere this piece at the rising of the sun on the Spring Equinox. With the natural lighting in the Free Church, I hope the lighting conditions will be perfect for this time of year, creating an ideal atmosphere for the performance."

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June 21 - Summer Solstice I at 20.00
Spirit  - Þórunn Björnsdóttir

"At the Summer Solstice, a kind of magic occurs, connecting us to the beyond. It is at this time, when the sun is at its highest and the day is longest, that our bond with nature becomes stronger. At this peak moment, there is a reset – the supernatural reminds us of itself while grounding us to the Earth. As the forces of nature, both grand and small, awaken, we are reminded of the resetting of humanity itself."

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September 22 - Autumn EquinoxI at 20:00
Frelsi hugans - Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir

Composer Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir will present three pieces of music and three mantras under the title Freedom of the Mind. The works are inspired by new meditations and texts written by three Icelandic female priests. These meditations explore the themes of autumn, rest, hibernation, beginnings, endings, and more, offering a deep reflection on this transitional season.

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December 21 - Winter Solstice I at 20:00 
Kyrrð - Kristín Þóra Haraldsdóttir

"The time surrounding the Winter Solstice, the darkest day of the year, brings an overwhelming sense of stillness. Many people find themselves in a trance-like state during this time, where the darkness invites inner reflection. It is often said that we must confront the darkness, both within and without, before the light returns. Worldwide, there are traditions and folk beliefs associated with the Winter Solstice, the most well-known of course being Christmas itself. In the darkness, great beauty is often hidden, and it is in the deepest dark that light shines brightest. In my composition, I will explore these ideas, delving into the traditions and thoughts surrounding the Winter Solstice. Using voice and string instruments in a resonant space, I hope to create an experience, even a ritual, that leads the listener into this profound stillness."