Susanna Wallumrød has interpreted and composed new music inspired by the visionary nun Hildegard von Bingen (1098–1179), drawing from her music and her philosophy on feminism, mysticism, and ecology. Joining her are carillonneur Laura Marie Rueslåtten and musician/composer Jessica Sligter. The work was commissioned by and premiered at the city festival Lunalia in Mechelen, Belgium in April 2025.

“Hildegard von Bingen is a supernatural figure from history, yet long ago she was a very real and active person walking this earth. It’s humbling to consider what a single person can accomplish in one lifetime, and every time I read about Hildegard I’m overwhelmed and impressed by her visions and ability to carry them out,” says Susanna.

In 2024, Susanna Wallumrød marked her 20th anniversary as a recording artist. In 2025, she has toured with a new band for the album Meditations on Love, created music theatre based on her interpretations of Gunvor Hofmo’s poetry, and composed new music inspired by Hildegard von Bingen. In April, she won her fourth Spellemann Award in the Open Category, and her performance Jeg vil hjem til menneskene (I Want to Go Home to the People) was nominated for the Hedda Prize.

Susanna is known for her personal interpretations of songs by Joy Division, AC/DC, Dolly Parton, and Henry Purcell, as well as her compelling original works, her settings of Gunvor Hofmo’s poetry, and collaborations with Oslo Sinfonietta, Jenny Hval, American artist Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy, and the contemporary dance company Carte Blanche. Her last visit to Stavanger featured a tribute to Joni Mitchell alongside a star ensemble led by musical director Anja Lauvdal.

For the Kapittel Festival, Susanna brings brand new compositions and a new collaboration with Laura Marie Rueslåtten, carillonneur at Oslo City Hall, and musician/composer Jessica Sligter. With vocals, handbells, synth, and mellotron, this trio creates a new space for Hildegard von Bingen’s text and music.

www.susannamagical.com

This event is part of Kapittel – Stavanger International Festival for Literature and Freedom of Expression, 17–21 September 2025.

More information, programme and tickets at www.kapittel.no.

Please note: Photos and video may be taken at some events at Sølvberget and during the Kapittel Festival for documentation and social media use.