Role

:

Ensemble

Country

:

Iceland

Genre

:

Choral

 

Schola Cantorum Reykjavicensis is a renowned classical music choir based in Reykjavik, Iceland. The choir was founded in 1996 by Hörður Áskelsson, a prominent Icelandic conductor and music educator. The choir has since become one of the most respected and accomplished choral ensembles in Iceland and has gained international recognition for its exceptional performances. The choir's name, Schola Cantorum Reykjavicensis, is derived from the Latin term for "school of singers in Reykjavik." The choir is made up of approximately 40 singers, all of whom are volunteers and come from a variety of backgrounds. The choir's repertoire includes a wide range of classical music, from medieval chants to contemporary works. Schola Cantorum Reykjavicensis has performed in numerous concerts and festivals both in Iceland and abroad. The choir has collaborated with many renowned conductors and soloists, including Stephen Layton, Paul Hillier, and Håkan Hagegård. The choir has also performed with several orchestras, including the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. One of the highlights of Schola Cantorum Reykjavicensis' career was their performance at the 2008 Edinburgh International Festival. The choir performed a program of Icelandic and British music, which was very well received by the audience and critics alike. The choir's performance was described as "spellbinding" and "mesmerizing" by The Scotsman. In addition to their performances, Schola Cantorum Reykjavicensis has also released several recordings. Their first album, "Missa Brevis," was released in 2000 and featured works by Icelandic composers. The choir's second album, "Northern Lights," was released in 2005 and featured works by Nordic composers. The choir's most recent album, "Lux," was released in 2018 and features works by contemporary composers. Schola Cantorum Reykjavicensis has received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. In 2001, the choir was awarded the Icelandic Music Award for their album "Missa Brevis." The choir has also been nominated for several other Icelandic Music Awards, including Best Classical Album and Best Performance. In 2018, the choir was awarded the Icelandic Order of the Falcon, one of the country's highest honors, for their contributions to Icelandic culture. Despite their success, Schola Cantorum Reykjavicensis remains committed to their mission of promoting and preserving classical music in Iceland. The choir regularly performs in churches and other venues throughout Iceland, and they also collaborate with other Icelandic musicians and composers. The choir's dedication to their craft and their passion for classical music has made them one of the most respected and beloved choral ensembles in Iceland and beyond.

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