Så kort ein sommar menneska har - Songs by Gisle Kverndokk

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Gisle Kverndokk's "Så kort ein sommar menneska har - Songs by Gisle Kverndokk," a mesmerizing collection of songs released on April 16, 2021, under the Lawo Classics label. This 54-minute album is a testament to Kverndokk's versatility and depth as a composer, featuring a blend of original compositions and settings of Shakespearean sonnets, as well as a tribute to Ruth Maier.

The album opens with the evocative "Så kort ein sommar menneska har," setting the tone for a journey through a variety of musical landscapes. Kverndokk's compositions are brought to life by the talented Marianne Beate Kielland and Nils Anders Mortensen, whose performances add a layer of richness and nuance to the music.

A highlight of the album is the seven-part "Ruth Maier in Memoriam" cycle, each section offering a unique perspective and emotional resonance. The cycle is a poignant homage to the Norwegian-Jewish writer and poet Ruth Maier, who perished in the Holocaust. This suite showcases Kverndokk's ability to convey deep emotion and historical significance through his music.

The album also features settings of six Shakespeare sonnets, including the famous "Sonnet 18: Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?" and "Sonnet 129: The expense of spirit in a waste of shame." Kverndokk's interpretations of these timeless poems are both fresh and respectful, offering a new lens through which to appreciate the Bard's words.

In addition to these works, the album includes the hauntingly beautiful "Ave Verum" and the whimsical "Bare dragen er fri," demonstrating Kverndokk's range and creativity. Whether you're a longtime fan of Kverndokk's work or a newcomer to his compositions, "Så kort ein sommar menneska har" is sure to leave a lasting impression.