Oscar-winning composer brings Icelandic poetry to Australian stages

An Oscar-winning composer has brought the evocative spirit of Icelandic poetry to Australian stages with a new commission for the Australian Chamber Orchestra. Hildur Guðnadóttir, celebrated for her powerful film scores, has composed a new piece titled 'Time and the Water,' inspired by the works of modernist Icelandic poet Steinn Steinarr.

“

It was a bit of a shock that came with such a bang.

Guðnadóttir, who made history in 2020 as one of the few female composers to win an Oscar for her score for 'Joker,' has a distinguished list of accolades, including a Golden Globe, BAFTA, Grammy, and Emmy for her work on 'Chernobyl.' Despite her global success, she expressed surprise at the magnitude of her awards, noting that winning an Oscar was not part of her childhood aspirations. The awards have, however, significantly broadened her opportunities, leading to the release of two solo albums and four major film soundtracks since 2020.

“

I didn't grow up dreaming about winning an Oscar one day because that just simply wasn't in any of my horizon.

Growing up in Iceland, a land known for its dramatic landscapes and ancient Viking sagas, Guðnadóttir was immersed in a strong storytelling tradition. She explained that classical music's history in Iceland is relatively recent, partly due to historical religious bans on music. The nation's first full symphony orchestra concert did not occur until 1926. Storytelling persisted through 'rimur,' a traditional form of reciting poetry that Guðnadóttir likens to the sound of sheep bleating. This resourcefulness, born from a history of harsh living conditions and limited access to music technology, has profoundly shaped Iceland's vibrant music scene, from global pop artists to experimental genres, with Guðnadóttir herself at the forefront.

“

We don't have a long history of music because music was banned in Iceland for such a long time.

The new composition, 'Time and the Water,' premiered during the Australian Chamber Orchestra's national tour. The collaboration also features Norwegian trumpeter Arve Henriksen and the vocal ensemble Trio Mediæval. Guðnadóttir's connection to the project stems from her relationship with Henriksen, who is touring with the orchestra. The piece delves into themes inspired by Steinarr's poetry, reflecting the unique cultural and environmental influences that have shaped Guðnadóttir's distinctive artistic voice.

“

it was banned because of religion.