NEW MUSIC FOR MARY Ensemble Ylajali’s new CD “Mary’s Song” presents a selection of contemporary Norwegian a cappella settings of Marian texts. Mary is without a doubt the most influential female figure in sacred music, a fact that inspired Ensemble Ylajali decision to make a recording of music devoted to her. Mary has secured the place of women in an otherwise maledominated part of history; recent research and political currents have revealed further sides of Mary as a historical figure both in the arts and in academia. This makes her a fascinating figure for women today.

Frank Havroy’s four pieces for female voices – “Ave Maria”, “O Magnum Mysterium”, “Stabat Mater” and “Salve Regina” – are the centrepiece of this album. These works have not previously been recorded, and the latter two were commissioned especially by Ensemble Ylajali. Frank Havroy acted as producer for this recording in which the interaction between singers, conductor and producer created a genuine presence that is clearly audible on the CD.

Ensemble Ylajali is an independent vocal ensemble based in the town of Bodo. Since the group was formed in 2008 they have given some 90 concerts, and in 2014 they won two first prizes at the international choral competition in Riva del Garda, Italy. In 2013 Ensemble Ylajali was the recipient of an Arts Council Norway grant for semiprofessional choirs.