Musical Journey Across Northern Seas

Musical Journey Across Northern Seas
1000 years of the Normans 

This concert traces the evolution of the Normans, from their Viking origins to their rise as a major force in medieval Europe.

Performed by Musici Ireland, the Celoniatus Ensemble, and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of violin soloist Harriet Mackenzie, the programme takes the form of a musical journey across the North Sea world.

It explores key moments in this shared history, from the arrival of the Vikings in Ireland and the victory of the Irish king Brian Boru, known as the “Viking Slayer”, to the Norman conquest of England and their later presence in Ireland. Blending Irish and European traditions with new commissions and spoken word, the concert offers an original perspective on this interconnected past.

The programme also features Love Through the Seasons, a cycle inspired by the enduring partnership of William the Conqueror and Matilda of Flanders. This reimagining of the seasons brings together The Lark Ascending as Spring, Piazzolla’s Verano Porteño, alongside new works by Cecilia McDowall and Ariel Pirotti.

Programme Highlights
A varied and evocative repertoire illustrates the cultural exchanges across the northern seas, combining traditional influences with contemporary composition.
Suite of Traditional Folk Songs from the North Sea & North Atlantic
- Chanson de Roland – Eliot Delafosse (France)
- Pillars of the North Wind – Harriet Mackenzie (England)
- The Earl Beyond the Sea – Liam Bates (Ireland)
Love Through the Seasons
- Spring – The Lark Ascending (Ralph Vaughan Williams)
- Summer – Verano Porteño (Astor Piazzolla)
- Autumn – Ariel Pirotti
- Winter – Cecilia McDowall

This concert forms part of an international tour organised by Music in Action (Jersey), reflecting artistic collaboration between partners across several regions involved in the European Year of the Normans.


Practical Information
Admission: Paid event
Duration : 2 hours 
Enquiries

Cooperation United Kingdom / Jersey / Ireland
Partners: Music in Wexford, National Concert Hall (Ireland), Music in Action (Jersey), Celoniatus Ensemble (UK)