Hugi Guðmundsson

Composer in residence

Hugi Guðmundsson is the Composer-in-Residence of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and will hold the position during the 2026–27 and 2027–28 seasons. 

For some time now, Hugi has been among Iceland's most prolific composers. He studied composition at the Reykjavík School of Music and the Royal Danish Academy of Music, and electronic music at the Institute of Sonology in The Hague. Hugi Guðmundsson has received numerous awards and distinctions, both in Iceland and internationally, including the Icelandic Music Awards, which he has won five times. His works have been nominated three times for the Nordic Council Music Prize and have received recognition at the International Rostrum of Composers. Most recently, Hugi was awarded a 12-month artist's salary grant from the Composers Salary Fund.

As Composer-in-Residence of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Hugi will compose four varied orchestral works. One of his works will be featured at the opening subscription concert of season 2026-27, where it will receive its premiere under the baton of Barbara Hannigan. The concert will also mark Hannigan's first performance in the role of Chief Conductor and Artistic Director. Hugi is already working on a concerto for Barbara Hannigan, to be premiered in May 2027, where she will appear both as a soloist and conductor. In addition, Hugi is composing two additional works for Iceland Symphony Orchestra, to be premiered during the 2027–28 season.