Väsen – (noun) Noise. Essence. Spirit

The Swedish word väsen translates into English most prominently as noise, essence or spirit and our experience yesterday with the trio Väsen included each of those meanings and much more. 

Arriving late night from Sweden and never stopping, the trio first took their beautiful “noise” and their fun and infectious spirit to Bull Moose on Middle Street for a free in-store, mini-concert and CD signing. Then they went onto Hannaford Hall for an open sound check and “musical conversation” with young string students from 317 Main Street Community Music Center.

The trio then performed last night to an audience that welcomed them to Maine and who in return were warmly welcomed by Väsen to join them in a trip through parts of their lives and culture, expressed through music.

Not only does Väsen embody the many definitions of their name so did the day itself. With great friends (thank you June Vail for your illuminating pre-concert lecture!) and collaborators, the day embraced the true spirit of Portland Ovations: connecting with our community through the performing arts and the power of music as a global language that brings people together to share in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Lastly, there was noise but not just noise, beautiful, incredible music that had the hall reverberating with ¾ time polskas, laughter and pure enjoyment. Did you feel it too?