Gísli Magnússon
COMPOSER
The Icelandic composer Gísli Magnússon is best known for his evocative and texture-rich compositions that explore the realms of nature, mystery, dreams and surrealism. Some of his earlier works, such as Strokkur and Svartifoss, showcase quite elaborate depictions of waterfalls, geysers and other natural phenomena through intricate textures. And while his focus has slightly shifted in recent years, texture still remains a vital element of his musical output.
Magnússon studied composition at the Iceland Academy of the Arts (BA) and the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (MA), where he finished his studies in 2017. Among his teachers were Hróðmar I. Sigurbjörnsson, Atli Ingólfsson, Willem Jeths and Wim Henderickx, but he has also attended courses with composers such as Kaija Saariaho, Francisco Filidei and Fabien Lévy.
In 2017 Magnússon was selected for Yrkja, a workshop for young composers with the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, under the guidance of Daníel Bjarnason. This led to the premiere of his orchestral work Akvocirkulado on Dark Music Days in 2018. Magnússon has also collaborated with various other ensembles, including Duo Harpverk, Caput, Jökla, Elja, Uusinta, Kompass, 4x5 Duo and Tempo, and his works have been featured in festivals such as Dark Music Days, Nordic Music Days, Musiikin Aika and World New Music Days.