Soprano Hanna Dóra Sturludóttir enjoying the reception after her wonderful concert
On Friday, June 7th, members of the Canadian Nordic Society and the general public were treated to a delightful evening of Nordic songs from Finland, Iceland and Norway, and operatic favourites performed by the distinguished Icelandic mezzo–soprano Hanna Dóra Sturludóttir, skilfully accompanied by Snorri Sigfús Birgisson, pianist and composer.
The opening part of the program explored Iceland ́s rich musical literature in all its varied moods and colours with songs by various composers, including Einarrson, Kaldalóns, Þórarinsson, and Runólfsson and a fine piano piece by Leifs. This was followed by more familiar songs by Grieg and Sibelius, performed with collaborative sensitivity and skill by both musicians.
Ms. Sturludóttir‘s operatic training and experience really came to the fore in her dramatic renditions of arias, including a touching rendition of Una voce poco fa from “Il Barbieri di Siviglia“ by Rossini, and a sultry and sensuous performance of L‘amour est un oiseau rebelle from “Carmen” by Bizet. The formal program concluded with a poignant performance of Send in the Clowns by Sondheim. The evening came to a very enjoyable and spirited end with a rousing reprise of Á Sprengisandi by Ms. Sturludóttir and Mr. Birgisson, assisted by tenor Trygve Ringereide and His Excellency, Pétur Ásgeirsson, Ambassador of Iceland to Canada, joined by the entire audience.
Thank you to Astrid Ahlgren for these photos!
Congratulations and many thanks to concert organizer Costa Kapasalis!
(l to r) CNS Treasurer Lennart Nylund, Councillor Hilde Huus, and President Karin Birnbaum looked after the front desk
Members and guests enjoyed the post-concert reception which was sponsored by Ikea Ottawa
