“Music Patron matters because it breaks down the barriers between the composer and the listener; Music Patron supports the creation of a two way creative community, challenging the norm of the one way street of construction and consumption.”

Helgi R. Ingvarsson is an active composer based in Brighton. He has, amongst other works, written 7 operas to date that have received over 30 international performances. His music is regularly premiered and performed in the Nordic countries and the UK. Other works include numerous pieces for vocalists, such as choral works, art songs, as well as other experimental theatre works. Helgi’s portfolio also includes a large number of instrumental chamber pieces.

Opera Magazine described Ingvarsson’s opera Music and the Brain as being “immediately engaging“ (2022), and his music for strings was described by Icelandic critic Jonas Sen to have “a strong personal style” which “echoes the past” (2016) and critic Silja Athalsteinsdottir said Ingvarsson’s music is “full of emotion and mesmerising” (2022).

What does being one of Helgi’s patrons look like?
Patrons supporting Helgi are invited to become part of a community with whom he can share works in progress, rehearsal footage and other exclusive insights. Patrons will see how a piece comes alive, from being an idea on a page to being a fully fledged creation on stage. Patrons will receive updates and behind-the-scenes insights into Helgi’s creative process, which includes “translating an idea from your mind down to the page, and then from the page to performance”. 

“You don’t get inspiration always just from sitting alone at your desk. Communicating with my patrons would be a part of my search for inspiration.”

Supporting a composer on Music Patron gives you a first-hand perspective on the many elements within the creative process, and an understanding of an authentic journey of a composer. You can find out more about what it’s like to be a patron here.

Biography

Other notable works include numerous vocal works, works for solo flute and piano premiered by Helen Whitaker and Katherine Tinker (2023), the playful Random notes I found in the street (2021) commissioned by Personal Clutter (UK), his instrumental quintet ELEKTRA (2019) commissioned by Elektra Ensemble (ICE), the art song Vetrarþoka / Winter Fog (2016) commissioned by soprano Rannveig Káradóttir (GER), and Loftkastali / Castle in Air (2013) for solo cello which has been performed by fantastic cellists like Guthny Jonasdottir of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra (ICE), Clare O’Connell of the Chroma Ensemble (UK), and Martin Johnson section leader at RTE National Symphony Orchestra (IRE).

Helgi holds a doctorate degree in music composition (DMus) from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama London (2018).

Listen I only write alto flute parts when I miss you | Helgi R. Ingvarsson