Arna Rennan: Norwegian Folksongs

With her feet and her heart on both sides of the ocean, Rennan is a first generation Norwegian American and a dual citizen. Her performance will include songs about immigration, Nordic ballads and stories that will appeal the a simpler and richer time for one’s senses. Also, Grandmother’s stories and songs will be shared – Rennan plays the langeleik with dolls on her fingers!

Arna grew up hearing Norwegian songs in her home that her parents sang- especially on Saturday nights with their friends. She later moved to Norway and studied art at the National Academy of Art in Oslo. During the summer she worked at the Roisheim Hotel in Boverdalen. There she encountered the magical world of folklore and traditional folk music. Her interest in folk music led her to attend the Folk Music Institute in Rauland, Telemark where she learned “kveding”, vocal folk music.
Rennan’s songs span from ballads of the middle ages, stev, broadsides, to hymns and dance tunes. She also plays the langeleik (a relative of the dulcimer) seljefloeyte (overtone flute) and piano accordion. Her Music of the Immigrant is a program that shares songs about immigrates longing for their homeland, as well as vaudeville comedy tunes mixed with language and music. It will be an exploration of Norwegian culture from the old country to the traditions of today. Displays of traditional Norwegian crafts also featured.
Sponsored by ZAAC

Tickets $15 Students $5  Tickets