On Midsummer Night, the organizers and artists of the Dark Music Days festival gathered in Skerjafjörður to celebrate that the days are getting shorter, signaling the approach of the next festival. Dark Music Days is one of Iceland's oldest music festivals, and 2025 marks its 44th edition. The festival enjoys an international reputation as Iceland's foremost contemporary music festival.

Dark music Days 2025 will take place on January 24-26, 2025. 

January beeing Icelands darkest month, the curatorial team of Dark Music Days found it fitting to pick Midsummer night, the brightest time of the year, to introduce the festival's artists.

As in previous years, the festival’s partners, including the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Caput Ensemble, and the Chamber Orchestra, will have a significant presence, with a special focus on premiering Icelandic works. The Reykjavík Cantoque Ensemble's concert in Hallgrímskirkja will feature prominently, dedicated to the choral works of Hjálmar H. Ragnarsson, including a premiere of a new piece composed for this event.

In recent years, the festival has prioritized collaboration with schools and educational institutions, making it an ideal platform for young people embarking on their artistic journeys. Groups from the Iceland Academy of the Arts, the Reykjavík College of Music, and the Reykjavík School Bands will participate, along with a family-friendly sound bath event in partnership with Harpa’s family program.

The festival also offers a wide range of other events, including  a solo performance by John McCowen, micro-operas by Elín Gunnlaugsdóttir, and a concert-performance by Ásta Fanney Sigurðardóttir. Harpa will be the festival’s main hub, ensuring a festive atmosphere throughout the venue. Numerous free concerts and events will take place in Harpa’s open spaces, offering a varied program for everyone.

‍The full program will be announced in September when ticket sales commence.

Dark Music Days is organized by the Society of Icelandic Composers in collaboration with Iceland Music, Reykjavik Music City, Buisness Iceland, Harpa concert hall, Hallgrímskirkja, and the Nordic House Reykjavík.

More information about Dark Music Days>>