HÁTÍÐARGALA - NOC + ELJA

Reykjavík Opera Days, in collaboration with Herning Opera Festival, presents a spectacular gala concert featuring the Nordic Opera Choir and ELJA Chamber Ensemble, conducted by Ragnheiður Ingunn Jóhannsdóttir.

The programme offers a rich and dynamic selection of music, bringing together some of the most celebrated choruses in operatic history alongside solo works and lesser-known, exciting gems.

Audiences will experience everything from Verdi’s Gypsy Chorus from Il Trovatore and Va, pensiero from Nabucco to beloved arias such as the Habanera from Carmen and the enchanting Humming Chorus from Madama Butterfly. The programme also features magnificent works by composers including Alexander Borodin, Kaija Saariaho and Helena Munktell.

Reykjavík Opera Days celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, and this Festival Gala forms part of the celebrations marking this special milestone.

Nordic Opera Choir is a Nordic opera choir bringing together 30 young professional singers and conservatoire students aged 18–35 from across the Nordic countries. The choir was initiated by Den Jyske Sangskole in Herning in 2023 with the aim of supporting the professional development of young classical singers and creating a strong professional network across the Nordic region.

Each year, the singers come together for intensive rehearsals and performances under the guidance of Nordic conductors and mentors. The choir collaborates with orchestras and music festivals throughout the Nordic countries, offering participants the opportunity to develop artistically and professionally through a vibrant, high-level Nordic collaboration.

The project is primarily funded by the A.P. Møller Foundation in Denmark. Icelandic funders and partners of Reykjavík Opera Days supporting this project include the Icelandic Music Fund, the City of Reykjavík, the Ministry of Culture, Innovation and Higher Education, the Rút Hermann Memorial Fund, Ýlir Music Fund and Kaffi Ó-le.

Performers:

Nordic Opera Choir

ELJA Chamber Ensemble

Soloists

Conductor: Ragnheiður Ingunn Jóhannsdóttir