Aria is a compilation of vocal works, some of which have been recorded using real musicians, others that are backed by samplers (until they are recorded for real).
Gathering of the Stars features the superb players of the Iceland National Symphonic Orchestra and vocalists Margret Gretarsdottir and Johanna Osk Valsdottir with master Pavel Manacek on the piano (who also directed the orchestra and vocalists from the piano). Willow contains the same with the exception that there is no orchestra. All other tracks feature Johanna Osk Valsdottir and were recorded at studio Syrland.
There are a few problems in the string section of Gathering that I must address. At two points the violins sound out of pitch and that is an arrangement flaw on my part and should not reflect on the high-caliber performers. Be aware of this. I want to express great thanks and gratitude to everyone involved and the people of the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service and Salurinn concert hall.
Information on Gathering of the Stars and Willow
Recorded at Salurinn, Iceland, concert hall 2003.
Soprano: Margret Gretarsdottir
Mezzo-Soprano: Johanna Osk Valsdottir
Piano: Pavel Manasek
Concertmaster: Roland Hartwell
Violins: Lin Wei, Bryndis Palsdottir, Kristjan Matthiasson
Viola: Thorunn Osk Marinosdottir
Violoncello: Sigurdur Bjarki Gunnarsson
Contrabass: Havardur Tryggvason
Recording, mastering: Pall S. Gudmundsson (Icelandic National Broadcasting Service)
Assistant engineer: Finnur Bjornsson (Icelandic National Broadcasting Service)
