The Arctic Philharmonic, the world’s northernmost professional orchestra, is set to captivate European audiences this summer with a tour that brings the ethereal sounds of the Arctic to some of the continent’s most prestigious venues. Based in Bodø and Tromsø, Norway, the orchestra is renowned for its unique blend of traditional Nordic music and contemporary compositions, often inspired by the natural landscapes and indigenous cultures of the Arctic region.
A Journey from the North
Founded in 2009, the Arctic Philharmonic has quickly established itself as a dynamic and innovative ensemble. With a flexible structure that ranges from chamber groups to full symphony orchestras, it performs over 200 concerts annually, both domestically and internationally. The orchestra’s repertoire often includes works that reflect the cultural heritage of the Sámi people and the broader Arctic environment.
Summer 2025 European Tour
In August 2025, the Arctic Philharmonic will embark on a European tour, performing at:
Concertgebouw in Amsterdam on August 16
Musikfest Bremen in Papenburg on August 19
Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg on August 20
These performances will feature Norwegian violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing, showcasing pieces from their collaborative album Arctic, which received the Opus Klassik award in 2023. The program includes “The Sound of the Arctic” by Lasse Thoresen, a piece nominated for a Grammy in 2019, and compositions by Frode Fjellheim, known for integrating traditional Sámi joik into contemporary music.
A Musical Tribute to the Arctic
The tour aims to present the Arctic’s unique soundscapes to new audiences, blending classical music with elements that evoke the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Eldbjørg Hemsing describes the program as “film music for the concert hall or a soundtrack for an inner journey,” aiming to raise awareness about the Arctic’s fragile ecosystems and the impacts of climate change. Director Trud Berg emphasizes the importance of sharing the Arctic’s cultural identity through music, stating, “Going on tour gives us the opportunity to share a piece of the Arctic with a whole new audience.”
Experience the Arctic Philharmonic
For those interested in experiencing the Arctic Philharmonic’s unique sound, tickets for the European tour are available through the respective venues’ websites. Additionally, their award-winning album Arctic is accessible for those who wish to explore their music further.
Eldbjørg Hemsing & Arctic Philharmonic – Arctic (CD): This award-winning album captures the essence of the Arctic through a blend of classical and contemporary compositions, reflecting the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Leonard Bernstein; Anna Larsson; Christian Lindberg; Arctic Philharmonic – Sinfonia No. 1 (CD): A collaboration that showcases the orchestra’s versatility, featuring works that bridge traditional and modern classical music.
These selections offer a glimpse into the Arctic Philharmonic’s innovative approach to music, blending traditional Nordic elements with contemporary influences to create a unique auditory experience.
