Iceland’s Musical Treasure: Discover the Pearls of Icelandic Song

Welcoming you to the heart of Reykjavik stands Harpa concert hall, a landmark is known not just for its exceptional architecture but also for its role as the pulse of cultural and social life in Iceland. With its state-of-the-art acoustic technology,  Harpa has drawn millions of visitors since its inauguration in 2011—garnering accolades such as the prestigious Mies van der Rohe – European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture.
This summer, Harpa opens its doors to host a series of concerts, ‘Pearls of Icelandic Song.’ Its organizer is Bjarni Thor Kristinsson. Known for his renditions ranging from Mozart to Wagner, Kristinsson and his fellow Icelandic singers bring to life the Icelandic folk tunes and songs of elves, ghosts, outlaws, and more.

The ‘Pearls of Icelandic Song’ series promises to provide an unforgettable experience, as Icelandic musicians perform iconic songs, taking spectators on a journey through Iceland’s cultural tapestry. The concert promises a unique cultural immersion with each song performed in Icelandic and accompanied by English subtitles. Many other talented Icelandic singers will join Kristinsson, they are Jóna G. Kolbrúnardóttir, Kristín Sveinsdóttir, Lilja Guðmundsdóttir, Hanna Dóra Sturludóttir. The singers are accompanied by pianists Sólborg Valdimarsdóttir, Þóra Kristín Gunnarsdóttir og Laufey Sigrún Haraldsdóttir.

Hey Bjarni Thor. Thank you for taking the time for this interview. What can people who attend the Pearls of Icelandic Song concerts expect?

They can expect to hear beautiful music that they have most likely not heard before. The icelandic songs and folk music are so much connected to the spirit of the Icelanders and the icelandic nature. While some of the songs tell stories others take you on a ride over the icelandic highlands. We perform in Icelandic but with spoken word in English as the composers, poets and songs are presented along with the stories behind the music.

You are a highly successful classical singer who has performed worldwide and here in your homeland of Iceland. Can you give my readers insights into the Icelandic classical music scene?

The classical music scene in Iceland has been growing a lot in the last decades as well as getting more international attention. We cannot forget that Iceland used to be a very poor country until after the second world war and before that the cultural live was mainly based on literature. The first big classical concerts and opera performances took place in Iceland after 1900; centuries after other European countries. Nevertheless, the Icelanders have been singing since they arrived on this Island and singing in choirs is quite popular.

What is your favorite Icelandic music, and what Icelandic musicians would you recommend to my readers?

I am a big fan of the old Icelandic art songs and folk music, which is probably the reason why I started this concert series in the first place. There is so much going on in the music scene today. When it comes to classical music one should listen to the amazing pianist Vikingur Heiðar and music by Daniel Bjarnason and Anna Thorvaldsdóttir but of course one should get familiar with artists like Björk and Sigurrós.

What are your favorite places or activities here in Iceland?

Iceland has so much to offer when it comes to beautiful places. I come from a little town called Garður close to the International Airport in Keflavik. I love to go there and enjoy the fresh wind, watch the birds  and breathe in the salty smell of the Atlantic. When it comes to activities I love to play golf and Iceland has many great golf courses to offer, even though the golf season is quite short.

What advice do you have for those visiting Iceland for the first time?

There are so many known attractions and of course they are worth a visit but don’t be afraid to go just somewhere; stroll the streets of a village, walk around a little church, go to the coast and smell the ocean. The nature is amazing but the culture and history are worth attention as well.