“The Temptations of Veslemøy” is the fruit of compositional efforts of Norwegian composer Kjell Habbestad, the “gjendiktning” translation work of William Halverson, and a long-standing friendship between the two men .

Veslemøy is the heroine of Arne Garborg’s Nynorsk verse novel, “Haugtussa” She was made famous by Edvard Grieg’s setting of 8 of the 70 poems from the novel, focusing on her misfortunes in love. There is a lot more to the story, and Habbestad and Halverson delve deeply into the rich folklore and mysticism that make up “the rest of the story.”

The piece is composed for three singers, piano, oboe, and bass. Performers are soprano Melissa Holm-Johanssen, alto Judith Melander, baritone Justin Spenner, oboist Carrie Vecchione, bassist Rolf Erdahl, and pianist Bryon Wilson. Composer Habbestad and translator Halverson will also be on hand for the premiere.

This concert is free and open to the public. Free-will donations will be accepted at the door.

A 2:00 lunch precedes the concert at Norway House.

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