As part of the celebration for our upcoming 125th Anniversary in 2020, Sons of Norway has commissioned a musical work from renowned Norwegian composer Kim André Arnesen. Just in time for Christmas, this new work will have its world premiere in a series of four performances in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. For those unable to attend in person, recordings of the work will be made available after the performance dates. It will also be broadcasted nationally by American Public Media.
Kim André Arnesen is widely considered Norway’s leading choral composer, and is one of the nation’s most frequently performed composers alive today. His previous work has been described as “haunting, beautifully arched, warmly compassionate” by Gramophone magazine and has received numerous accolades, including a Grammy nomination.
The upcoming concert series by Twin Cities-based choral group VocalEssence features a selection of carols from Norway, Sweden and Finland—including the world premiere of Nordic Christmas, Arnesen’s original arrangement of Norwegian carols prepared in honor of Sons of Norway’s 125th Anniversary.
The commissioned piece will be performed at all four performances in the concert series, but Sons of Norway members are encouraged to attend on Saturday, December 7, for a special member appreciation night.
See below for performance dates and ticket information, and stay tuned for details about how to obtain a recording of the work if you are unable to attend in person.
Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 7:30-9:30 PM
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church
12650 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN
Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 4:00-6:00 PM
Plymouth Congregational Church
1919 LaSalle Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
Friday, December 13, 2019 at 7:30-9:30 PM
Plymouth Congregational Church
1919 LaSalle Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
Sunday, December 15, 2019 at 4:00-6:00 PM
Roseville Lutheran Church
1215 Roselawn Ave. West, Roseville, MN