Jazz Meets Choral: Ellen Andrea Wang Composes Virgin Mary Inspired Piece with KSS
Welcome to our blog post, where we will be discussing the latest release from one of Norway’s most esteemed female choirs, Kvindelige Studenters Sangforening (KSS). Under the direction of conductor Marit Tøndel Bodsberg Weyde, KSS has established itself as a leader in the choral world with their seamless blend of harmonies and powerful performances.
Their latest release, “Magnificat,” showcases a new direction for the choir as they collaborate with two of Norway’s most trendsetting jazz musicians, double bassist Ellen Andrea Wang and saxophonist Hanna Paulsberg. This album marks Wang’s debut as a choir composer, with her original work inspired by the Virgin Mary. The title track, “Magnificat,” is a choral piece that beautifully captures the emotions and experiences of Mary as she prepares to give birth to a child. Wang draws inspiration from the Gospel of Luke and Catholic Church liturgy to create a truly mesmerizing and moving composition. Wang explains that throughout music history, there have been numerous male composers who have written music to the Song of Mary, but surprisingly few female composers. She seeks to change that with this powerful and poignant piece that showcases the perspective of a woman.
The album first premiered at the 2021 Molde Jazz Festival, where Wang was joined by her fellow performers, including the KSS choir, saxophonist Hanna Paulsberg, and vocalist and saxophonist. The songs were arranged by Wang and Kjetil Bjerkestrand, with additional contributions from Paulsberg. This release marks KSS’s sixth album on the LAWO Classics label, solidifying their status as a leading female choir in Norway and beyond. With their breathtaking performances and dedication to showcasing the works of female composers, KSS continues to push boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide. We highly recommend giving “Magnificat” a listen, as it is a beautiful and moving tribute to the Virgin Mary and the power of female musicians.
With its seamless blend of jazz and choral harmonies, this album is a must-have for any music lover. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the latest release from Kvindelige Studenters Sangforening, a truly exceptional and talented choir.