Norwegian Folk Music / Norwegian Folk Art for International Students

The Norwegian Folk Music / Norwegian Folk Art for International Students programme is a one-year, 60 ECTS programme that provides a practical and theoretical introduction to Norwegian folk music / folk art traditions and cultural history. In addition to in-depth experiential, hands-on learning, the programme challenges you to engage in critical reflection about folk culture and its role in society. Students are required to select one area of specialisation: Norwegian Folk Music or Norwegian Folk Art.

The programme takes place at Campus Rauland, where you can participate in an active and unique study environment. Campus Rauland provides a rare opportunity to study Norwegian folk music / folk art in a scenic rural mountain setting where you are immersed in the traditional arts and life of the region.

The Norwegian Folk Music / Norwegian Folk Art for International Students programme is a joint programme for students wishing to specialise in Norwegian Folk Art or Norwegian Folk Music. You will participate in joint modules as well as discipline-specific courses/modules. Joint modules are taken by both folk art and folk music students, while discipline-specific courses/modules are selected according to your area of specialisation (Norwegian Folk Art or Norwegian Folk Music).

Joint modules include Norwegian cultural history, in which you will learn about the role and significance of folk culture in Norwegian society, as well as Norwegian language lessons. 

Students specialising in Norwegian Folk Music will receive practical and theoretical instruction in Norwegian regional music and dance traditions, organology, and more. You will receive individual lessons on your main instrument, and group instruction in ensemble, folk song, folk dance, and secondary instruments.

Performing is an essential part of the programme. Each student is expected to develop a repertoire of traditional vocal or instrumental music under the mentorship of a faculty member. Students also participate in concerts at various venues.

Teaching methods include hands-on experience with music and dance, as well as lectures, seminars, excursions, individual and group projects, and presentations.

Students specialising in Norwegian Folk Art will receive practical and theoretical instruction in the use of tools and techniques to design traditional craft objects. You will select one material area for specialisation (woodworking, textiles, or metalwork). You will receive individual and group guidance.

Spending time in the workshop is an essential part of the programme. In the workshop you will explore different handcraft traditions and techniques within your chosen material area. Topics include material qualities and properties, the safe and functional use of tools and materials, decoration, and the relationship between material, tools, technique and an object’s function. You will also learn about drawing techniques, idea development and formal aesthetic principles.

Teaching methods include hands-on experience in the workshop, as well as lectures, seminars, excursions, individual and group projects, student exhibitions, and presentations.

Following the completion of the programme you may continue your studies or work in the field of music/art/traditional culture. The programme may be combined with other undergraduate programmes in music/art.