Description

New compositions inspired by medieval ballads performed by FriEnsembletthat is jazz and beyond from a small big band led by Mathilde Grooss Viddal.

Name: Mathilde Grooss Viddal - Tri Vendur Blés Ho I Den Høgaste Sky (CD)
SKU: WEEC647533
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.7 (148 reviews)

Exerpt from the cover text:
Viddal herself points out that the work is about dreams and fears, about longing for freedom, about loss and conflicts, today and throughout history. The work also presents itself as a contemplation on cultural heritage and cultural encounters.

One of the elements opening the work to other dimensions is the basis of Norwegian medieval ballads and the tradition these ballads originated. This is a tradition primarily known within folk music environments. At the same time, the ballads are an integral part of folk beliefs, storytelling and legends, and a reservoir of earlier understandings of nature. As a second phenomenon, the Norwegian ballad tradition can be understood in a more global and globalized context. Some ballads seem to have travelled; versions exist in different languages and musical cultures.

The local dimension of the music is perhaps most easily heard in the Norwegian lyrics and singing style, further on to the Hardanger violin. At the same time, the work opens up an expanded sonic field, inspired by Andalusian music, Arabic maqamat, Medieval and Middle Eastern music, Catholic folk beliefs, and past love stories. All these dimensions contribute to a work of musical generosity. Viddal”s compositions are respectful towards the traditions involved, while together with her musicians letting the traditions speak to us today. The various local traditions come together in dialogues across history and geography. Maybe music is a way – a portal – to another time and space, a place where we can move between different times and spaces. I am not entirely willing to think so, but a part of me wants to believe.