Role

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Ensemble

 

Nordic Voices is a Norwegian vocal ensemble that has gained international recognition for their unique and innovative approach to classical music. The group was founded in 1996 by six singers who shared a passion for exploring the possibilities of the human voice. The members of Nordic Voices are Tone Braaten (soprano), Ingrid Hanken (soprano), Ebba Rydh (alto), Per Kristian Amundrød (tenor), Frank Havrøy (baritone), and Trond Olav Reinholdtsen (bass). Each member brings their own individual style and expertise to the group, creating a dynamic and versatile sound. From the beginning, Nordic Voices set out to challenge traditional notions of what a vocal ensemble could do. They experimented with different vocal techniques, including overtone singing, throat singing, and other extended techniques, to create a sound that was both ancient and modern. One of the group's early breakthroughs came in 2000, when they won first prize in the prestigious Tolosa International Choral Competition in Spain. This was a major achievement for the young ensemble, and it helped to establish their reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative vocal groups in Europe. Over the years, Nordic Voices has continued to push the boundaries of classical music, collaborating with composers and musicians from a wide range of genres and backgrounds. They have performed with jazz musicians, electronic musicians, and even heavy metal bands, always seeking out new and unexpected ways to use their voices. One of the group's most notable collaborations came in 2011, when they worked with the Norwegian composer Maja Ratkje on a piece called "Traces". This piece was a multimedia work that combined live performance with video projections and electronic soundscapes, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. In addition to their collaborations with other artists, Nordic Voices has also gained a reputation for their interpretations of classical repertoire. They have recorded several albums of music by composers such as Josquin des Prez, Thomas Tallis, and Arvo Pärt, showcasing their ability to bring new life to even the most familiar works. One of the group's most acclaimed recordings is their 2015 album "Dmitri Shostakovich: Complete Songs". This ambitious project involved recording all 150 of Shostakovich's songs, a feat that had never been attempted before. The album was praised for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to capture the full range of Shostakovich's emotional and musical expression. Nordic Voices has also been recognized for their live performances, which are known for their energy, precision, and emotional depth. They have performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Berlin Philharmonic, and the Royal Albert Hall in London. One of the group's most memorable performances came in 2016, when they performed at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo. They sang a piece called "The Sun Will Rise Again", which was composed by the Norwegian musician and activist Moddi. The performance was a powerful tribute to the ideals of peace and justice, and it earned Nordic Voices widespread acclaim. Throughout their career, Nordic Voices has received numerous awards and accolades for their contributions to classical music. In addition to their Tolosa International Choral Competition win, they have also won the Norwegian Grammy Award (Spellemannprisen) twice, in 2007 and 2012.

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