Nils Økland & Sigbjørn Apeland (Norway)
At a glance
About this event
Nils Økland is an innovative violinist and Hardinger fiddle specialist who is creatively expanding the range of the traditional music of his Nordic homeland.
The creator of a series of acclaimed albums on the prestigious ECM recording label, Økland is joined here by fellow countryman Sigbjørn Apeland for what promises to be a compelling virtuoso performance that includes traditional, folk and classical tunes from their native Norway.
Økland and Apeland's are master musicians whose drifting, morning-mist fiddle sound is pillowed by harmonium, to create a soft and brooding musical atmosphere that is both hypnotic and haunting.
The ‘personality’ of the instruments themselves set the tone - with the ‘drone’ qualities of the sympathetic 12-string Hardanger fiddle and the harmonium creating music that is both timeless, and ancient.
Økland's playing is surprisingly panoramic, and the sheer detail inherent in his instruments' tonal qualities creates a rich listening experience.
As a duo, Okland and Apeland weave celestial spells that are at times rough and earthy, as others majestically stratospheric in their marriage of tradition and modernity.
Location
Bray Town Hall, Main St, Bray, Co. Wicklow
Venue details
Bray Town Hall was originally built in 1884 and was substantially refurbished in 1992 to provide a restaurant and Council Chamber for Bray UDC. The building is considered one of the finest buildings in Bray.
