This concert celebrates the release of a new recording featuring original compositions by cellist Þórdís Gerður Jónsdóttir, all inspired by Icelandic poetry, both classic and contemporary.
The aim of the compositions is to capture the atmosphere of each poem and translate — and extend — it into music. The poets featured in the project include Gerður Kristný, Ragnar Helgi Ólafsson, Ásta Sigurðardóttir, Steinn Steinarr, Davíð Stefánsson, and Steingrímur Thorsteinsson.
The varying styles and forms of the poems — as much as their themes and subject matter — have inspired compositions that differ greatly in texture and structure. Through this project, Þórdís continues to expand the role of the cello as a leading instrument in jazz and improvised music. She also draws on her extensive background in chamber music performance, bringing the precision and sensitivity of classical music into the world of improvisation.
Performers:
Þórdís Gerður Jónsdóttir — cello
Hilmar Jensson — electric guitar
Matthías Hemstock — percussion
Birgir Steinn Theodórsson — double bass
Óskar Guðjónsson — saxophone