NORDIC MUSIC DAYS 2011, OCTOBER 6 - 9, REYKJAVIK

Icelandic folklore states that if you sit at a crossroads all night on "Jónsmessa" (June 23rd, an ancient Nordic holiday to celebrate the Summer solstice) elves will attempt to seduce you with food and gifts.

 

That night, at midnight, on this website, we presented the programme for the 2011 Nordic Music Days Festival. The theme: "A Turning Point". 

 

We thank you for sitting down with us at a crossroads - a turning point - and having become seduced by the event: four days and nights of high-class concerts and performances, showcasing many of the newest, best and most innovative works of the North.

 

NMD2011 started on an historic day for Iceland. On October 6th, 2008, three years ago to date, on the eve of our economic collapse, a famous television speech was given to the nation by our former Prime Minister, warning of the upcoming disaster.

 

On the contrary, October 6th, 2011, was a day to celebrate. We sat at a crossroads, at a turning point, and finally took the road towards the future again. This was emphasized by the fact that the whole festival took place in the brand new and spectacular National Concert Hall, "Harpa". NMD2011 was the first festival of its kind to be held there.

 

The event ended on an historical date as well, albeit different. October 9th is John Lennon´s birthday. And because of that, the celebration went on. After the last concert, composers, performers and NMD2011 guests sailed with Yoko Ono to Videy Island to witness the lightening of her Imagine Peace Tower: a powerful symbol of the future, of hope and optimism.

Thank you all for coming to Nordic Music Days 2011 in Reykjavík!

Pétur Jónasson
Artistic Director
NMD2011

Contact:
NMD2011, Society of Icelandic Composers, Laufásvegi 40, 101 Reykjavík, tel. (00354) 8635222, composer@simnet.is