THE BRAGERNES CANTICLES

This release of The Bragernes Canticles: Magnificat & Nunc dimittis, a powerful and radiant new recording of sacred music by internationally acclaimed Norwegian composer Kim André Arnesen. Performed by the Bragernes kirkes ungdomskor under the direction of Beate Strømme Fevang, this release captures the expressive depth and lyrical beauty of Arnesen’s music in an inspired and heartfelt interpretation.

Commissioned by Bragernes Church in Drammen and written specifically for the Bragernes kirkes ungdomskor, the Bragernes Canticles form a significant addition to the growing body of 21st-century sacred music. Scored for upper voices and organ, Arnesen’s setting of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis combines clarity and grace with lush harmonies and flowing melodic lines—hallmarks of his internationally recognised style.

The recording highlights a close artistic collaboration between composer, conductor, and choir, with a shared commitment to creating sacred music that speaks to today’s listeners. The canticles are firmly grounded in the liturgical tradition while reflecting a modern sense of hope, wonder, and peace. The choir is joined by a distinguished group of instrumentalists:

Per Kristian Skalstad (violin), Ed James Daniel (violin), Henninge Landaas (viola), Anne Stine Dahl (cello), Patrick Wilder (double bass) and Jon Martin Høie (organ).

Under the skilled leadership of Beate Strømme Fevang, Bragernes kirkes ungdomskor has grown into one of Norway’s most vibrant youth choirs. Their luminous, unified sound is perfectly matched to Arnesen’s writing, offering an interpretation that is both emotionally resonant and technically refined.