Unravel Tradition – Tone Kummervold

Acclaimed Norwegian mezzo-soprano Tone Kummervold, whose remarkable talent has captured audiences both at home and on the international stage, is set to release her highly anticipated debut album Unravel Tradition on Simax. Known for her unforgettable performances at the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, her dynamic collaborations with the Oslo Philharmonic, and standout international appearances with the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France and the Prague State Opera, Kummervold’s debut album offers a compelling showcase of her artistic versatility. A true highlight of the album is a world premiere composition written specifically for her by Eva Holm Foosnæs, recorded with the renowned Vertavo String Qartet.

The newly composed song cycle “Indian Love Songs”, by Norwegian composer Eva Holm Foosnæs is set to poetry by Indian poet and political activist Sarojini Naidu (1879-1949). In the composer’s own words: “This work is a musical tribute to Sarojini Naidu. It aims to reflect the colorful and singable nature of the text while incorporating elements of a more traditional lied form.” Another significant composition on the album is Angela’s Confessional, an aria from the opera The Listeners, composed by Grammy-nominated Missy Mazzoli and librettist Royce Vavrek. The aria was created in a rush of creativity just three weeks before the opera’s world premiere at the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet in 2022, tailored specifically for Kummervold’s voice. This piece, along with the album’s other selections, weaves a vibrant tapestry of classical vocal music and showcases Tone’s dedication to exploring and experimenting within a dynamic musical landscape.

Elizabeth Norberg-Schulz, one of Kummervold’s former mentors, describes the album as follows:

“What truly makes this album remarkable is Tone’s interpretation. She delves deeply into each composer, highlighting the meaning behind their compositions and poetry. With her warm mezzo-soprano and superb style, based on the Italian bel canto tradition, she flows through the music, touching the listeners’ souls and hearts with her fantastic technique and soulful immersion. I am convinced that this album will bring great joy and open up new musical experiences for all who hear it.”

Librettist Royce Vavrek also praises Kummervold:

“When Tone sings, I feel as though I am hearing the truth. Her honesty in communicating through song is palpable. Moreover, she is remarkably versatile, effortlessly navigating both canonical repertoire and the contemporary work from me and my collaborators. She is a world-class artist and an even more remarkable human. I am thrilled that the world now has the opportunity to experience Tone’s singular qualities through this recording. It stands as a testament to a musician at the height of her talents, and excites me to think of all of the melodies her future might bring.”

About Tone Kummervold: Tone Kummervold has had a remarkable career that began with her musical studies at NTNU in Trondheim and continued at the University of Stavanger, where she studied under Elizabeth Norberg-Schulz. She completed her studies at the Conservatorio L. Refice in Italy, specializing under Rossini expert Agata Bienkowska. Since her professional debut at the Norwegian National Opera in 2009, Kummervold has performed leading roles in a range of operatic productions, including title roles in Carmen and La Cenerentola, as well as characters such as Ulrica in Un Ballo in Maschera and Baba the Turk in The Rake’s Progress.

With her debut album Unraveling Tradition, Tone Kummervold aims to offer listeners deeper insight into her musical journey and artistic exploration. The album will be available on CD and all streaming platforms from November 15, 2024.