Trondheim Voices – 'Fluctuations'

A new work by Sissel Vera Pettersen for Trondheim Voices. The work premiered at Moldejazz in July 2026.

Fluctuations draws its inspiration from waves. From the deep movements of the ocean to the ever-repeating cycles that govern all living things, and the ceaseless fluctuations that define both nature and human life.

The vocal ensemble Trondheim Voices is known for challenging the boundaries of what voices can express. In this new commissioned work, composer Sissel Vera Pettersen takes the concept of “waves” as a starting point – not just as physical movements, but as a metaphor for human experiences and the invisible ties between nature’s cycles and people’s inner lives.

The work is inspired by repetitive minimalism, animal sounds, machine noise, liturgical chorales, ritual rhythm circles, and music as a timeless connecting force between people.

A mosaic of personal expressions.

Trondheim Voices consists of some of the country's foremost improvising vocalists, and in this project each individual singer is given a crucial role. The music is written as a framework where each ensemble member colors the soundscape with their unique, personal expression. Through a seamless fusion of acoustic sound and electronic manipulation, the voices are transformed into everything from fragile melodic lines to massive walls of sound.

Cast:
Vocals, live electronics, percussion:
Sissel Vera Pettersen
Thea Ellingsen Grant
Jakob Nordli Leirvik
Tone Ase
Natali Abrahamsen Garner
Anita Kaasboell
Harald Relling Nilsen
Heidi Skjerve

Composer: Sissel Vera Pettersen

Sound design: Tor Breivik
Lighting design: Sindre Hansen

Trondheim Voices is part of the Midtnorsk Jazz Center and receives grants from the Directorate of Culture, Trondheim Municipality and Trøndelag County Council.