The Nordic Project

Project Overview

This project introduces vocal repertoire from Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark, inviting participants to explore the beauty, variety, and cultural richness of Nordic art song.

As part of the SongFest Festival, we will present a Scandinavian Project and Concert featuring songs in Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, and Danish, coached by Kathleen Roland-Silverstein and Francesco Barfoed. Together, we’ll explore the Scandinavian languages, journey through Northern landscapes, and trace how repertoire—rooted in folk traditions—developed through the 19th century into the works now celebrated on international concert stages. Participants will also receive tools and resources, including repertoire lists, for continued study.

A basic introduction to Scandinavian diction will be offered. No prior knowledge of the languages is required.


Faculty

Kathleen Roland-Silverstein – Swedish and Norwegian composers
Francesco Barfoed – Danish and Finnish composers
Javier Arrebola – Nordic composers

Program Components

Coachings for singer–pianist duos
Masterclasses in Scandinavian song
Lectures on Nordic poets
Repertoire lists and learning resources

Final Concerts

“Northern Lights”
Concert:
TBA
Performers: Singer–pianist duos

“Scandinavian Songs”
Concert:
TBA
Performers: SongFest singers with Francesco Barfoed, piano