– Being able to welcome Astrid back is an enormous privilege, says fellow alto Maria Dale Johannessen.
Astrid sang her first concert with the choir in Minneapolis in 2002 and remained a member for many years before leaving to work at Follo Folk High School. After auditioning in August, she is now back in the ensemble.
– I just missed singing too much. It was hard to put it aside, Astrid says.“There’s a sense of belonging I have as a singer in The Norwegian Soloists’ Choir – nothing else resonates in that same way.
She continues:
– I’ve always been fascinated by what we can create together. I love people and I love teamwork. For me, few things compare to making music in close collaboration with others. After so many years in the choir, I feel confident in the group and in my role – and that’s a real strength.
Fellow alto Frøydis Fegran Kopperud shares her joy:
– I’m so happy that Astrid is back. She’s steady and dependable, and she brings a calm that’s contagious. Singing with her feels effortless. We laugh a lot and sing well together with Astrid!
Maria Dale Johannessen adds:
– Astrid has a unique ability to be fully present – both musically and personally. She brings invaluable experience and truly knows what matters in the life of an ensemble singer. With her warmth and generosity, she makes everyone feel safe and welcome, while also inspiring and expecting all of us to perform at the very highest level. And her rich, warm voice is something every ensemble dreams of having.
Looking ahead to the new season, Astrid says:
– I’m really looking forward to working with Yuval Weinberg, our new Artistic Director. It marks an exciting new chapter for the choir, and I’m so happy to be part of it. There’s also a lot of wonderful music coming up – Messiah with the Norwegian Radio Orchestra, Vesper of the Blessed Virgin with the Norwegian wind ensemble. But first: the All Saints’ concert with Yuval already next week!”