The collaboration between Guðrún Óskarsdóttir, harpsichordist, and Heleen Van Haegenborgh, composer and pianist, draws inspiration from the world of folklore, particularly its ability to encompass complex themes from human existence and transform them into simple and clear forms. In Heleen van Haegenborgh’s work Folk Tales for Keyboard and Strings, references are made to places and environments where human activity and nature intersect, such as “playground,” “cemetery,” “bedroom,” “factory,” and “forest.” These references are reflected in the sonic landscape of the piece through a combination of field recordings, random collections of folk material, and contrasting soundscapes between the piano and the harpsichord.The piece was originally commissioned by the Transit Festival in Belgium and premiered at the festival in October 2020. 

The concert lasts about an hour, with no intermission.

Programme:

Heleen van Haegenborgh – Folklore for strings and keys (2020)

Performers:

Guðrún Óskarsdóttir, cembalo

Heleen Van Haegenborgh, piano