In this project I explored composing wordless music within the jazz genre inspired by a Norwegian folklore: the story of Trollveggen. Influenced by composers like Meredith Monk and Maurice Ravel I wrote six programmatic compositions. Each piece was thoroughly crafted using specific keywords and rules derived from Patrik N. Juslin’s research on the emotional impact of musical elements. Additionally, I incorporated insights from Alf Gabrielsson and Erik Lindström’s study The Role of Structure in the Musical Expression of Emotions, and used Kate Hevner’s research to further deepen my compositional approach.

I discuss jazz vocal performance as a non-verbal storytelling method, incorporating vocal extended techniques. I also explore how I navigated between creative constraints and artistic freedom, within the compositional framework, to bring each composition to life.

Reflecting on this process, I examine its profound impact on my musical and personal growth. Through these compositions, I aim to evoke a meaningful emotional connection with the audience, inviting them to interpret the narrative in their own unique way.