Salurinn Concert Hall Announces Selected Composers for Tónverk 20/21
Salurinn Concert Hall has revealed the selected composers for its new creative initiative, Tónverk 20/21, designed to champion contemporary composition and showcase Icelandic musical talent. Following a competitive application process featuring sixteen candidates, a selection panel chose four distinct artists to write new string quartets specifically tailored for the venue.
New Music Creation at Salurinn Concert Hall
The selected artists—Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir, Sigurður Árni Jónsson, Gunnar Karel Másson, and María Huld Markan Sigfúsdóttir—bring diverse backgrounds and creative approaches to the project. Their newly commissioned works will receive their premieres during the venue's Tíbrá concert series.
The collaborative effort is supported by the Art and Culture Council of Kópavogur and developed alongside the Music Information Centre Iceland. The resulting string quartets will be brought to life by the Siggi String Quartet, which serves as the primary partner and premiere ensemble for the project.
Meet the Selected Composers
Each chosen composer approaches contemporary sound in a unique way:
- Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir holds a master's degree in composition from the Iceland University of the Arts, blending vocal and choral roots with lyrical chamber works.
- Gunnar Karel Másson is a graduate of the Royal Danish Academy of Music whose pieces frequently integrate theatrical and philosophical concepts into dynamic sonic spaces.
- María Huld Markan Sigfúsdóttir draws on her extensive experience as a violinist and composer, exploring the instrument's textures across chamber works, orchestral pieces, and film scores.
- Sigurður Árni Jónsson completed master's studies in both composition and conducting in Sweden, bringing experience leading the Ensemble Dasein to his detailed chamber writing.
Visitors interested in experiencing these premieres can plan their attendance through Musemap (musemap.art), where you can explore upcoming performances or find what's on exhibitions and browse the museums list across the city.
