When a curious art critic inquired how there could be so many creative musicians in the village of Hemnesberget (population 1260), one of the locals quipped: “It must be something in the water.” One thing is certain, the residents of Hemnesberget share a keen appreciation of the community’s musicians and appreciate every opportunity to hear their music. So do many visitors. For a taste of what is offered, you can explore the links to the right.
Hemnes Jazz Forum, which soon is celebrating its 25th anniversary, hosts the annual Hemnes Jazz Festival in Jernvaren, its own clubhouse in Hemnesberget. In 2016, Hemnes was named Norway’s Jazz Club of the Year, in competition with clubs in Oslo and other cities.
However, jazz in Hemnes is more than just a festival. Almost every week of the year, concerts are held at Jernvaren – and musicians come from far and wide to perform. Performers include local talents such as Anna Anita, who in 2020 was amongst the Top 10 in Norwegian Idol.
Rest assured, even the Covid pandemic cannot stop the music! Through Helgeland’s Virtual Stage, Jernvaren has continued to offer regular concerts. So, treat yourself to a concert, anywhere and anytime!
Top: Bitchy Big Boobies Bang Band from Hemnesberget. Photo: Frode Fagerheim.
