CD Poeta Magica - Edda Vol. 1

CD Poeta Magica - Edda Vol. 1

The Edda is one of the most famous poetic works and the most important source of Old Norse mythology. "Music inspired by the Edda" refers to the contemporary realization of this massive collection of songs by POETA MAGICA. The ensemble, known throughout Europe for its cross-border interpretations of Early Music, pioneered the combination of diverse musical styles into "medieval world music." In this unique blend of musical inspiration and instrumental virtuosity, POETA MAGICA brings gods, heroes, and myths back to life in the mind's eye on the CD "EDDA Vol. I." The oldest ballads of Scandinavia, traditional folk melodies, and original compositions resonate as multi-faceted as the Nordic landscape: traditional with Scandinavian instruments; classical with orchestral arrangements; modern with influences of jazz and New Age. Recitations from the Edda in Old Icelandic and lyrics in Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, as well as English, open up new perspectives on the pantheon of the far north.

Musically, POETA MAGICA breaks new ground while remaining true to its distinctive style. The instrumental focus is the nyckelharpa: this CD features an entire nyckelharpa orchestra and, for the first time, the world's largest nyckelharpa—a contrabass nyckelharpa developed by Holger Funke—as well as a nyckelharpa with a quarter-tone row. Renowned guest musicians from Scandinavia, such as Tone Hulbaekmo (Kalenda maya) from Norway, contributed to this project.

With this CD, POETA MAGICA sets new standards in the field of world music.

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