Music is integral to Faroese culture and society—perhaps more so than in most other communities—because it is deeply rooted in the islands’ centuries-long storytelling tradition.

No musical instrument of significance was available on the islands until the mid-1800s. Instead, people used their voices to sing ballads. Despite introducing instruments and various music forms since, the Faroese have stuck firmly to their singing traditions, including the Faroese chain dance (called Føroyskur dansur).

Originally a 13th-century medieval ring dance from Southern Europe, the Faroese chain dance has survived despite the gradual demise of the dance elsewhere in Europe (which probably happened because of a ban from the church, which viewed the dance as a heathen tradition). The Faroese chain dance, with its quirky rhythm and ballads about kings and heroes of days gone by, uses no musical instruments. The dancers form a circle, holding each other’s hand while expressively singing or chanting (kvøðing). A skipper, or captain, leads the dance and starts each verse.

The ballads have been orally transmitted since the 13th century. For centuries, they were sung while dancing and used in normal everyday life, for instance, during the evenings when families would gather to knit or work with wool. The ballads were written down for the first time at the beginning of the 19th century. Today, there are 15 Faroese Dance Associations, one of which is in Denmark.

This rich tradition of singing and dancing without instruments has often been credited with explaining why the Faroe Islands have continuously produced a relatively high number of musicians compared to the country’s small population.

Faroese music in the 21st century

Although non-instrumental musical traditions, such as the Faroese chain dance, still thrive today, there is no denying that Faroese music has embraced the addition of instruments and the influence of foreign music. The Faroese music scene has never buzzed more loudly, with artists and creators consistently delivering world-class performances and recordings across all genres.

The country’s most renowned artists are Teitur and Eivør, whose respective international careers span over a decade. Other artists who have enjoyed international acclaim are Viking Metal band Týr, pop group Byrta, singer-songwriter Lena Anderssen, avant-garde Orka, and alternative-pop singer Greta Svabo Bech—and despite its size, the Faroe Islands even has its symphony orchestra!

Music Festivals

The numerous festivals held annually in the Faroe Islands prove the music scene is thriving. Interestingly, the types of festivals vary greatly here—from Faroese Folk music to Pop, Doom Metal to Country, there is something for everyone.

ÓLAVSØKA

a Documentary about Faroese music and Culture
during the National Holiday