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Barbara Hannigan Premieres Emotional Symphony Inspired by Loss

3/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Barbara Hannigan, a Canadian soprano and conductor, premiered Laura Bowler's The White Book with Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra.
The White Book is inspired by Han Kang's text on loss, and Bowler found it cathartic, sensing her late mother in it.
Hannigan, serving as both conductor and vocalist, expressed calmness at the premiere.
She will continue as chief conductor of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra while maintaining her performance schedule.

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Story summary

Barbara Hannigan, a Canadian soprano and conductor, premiered Laura Bowler's The White Book with Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra.
The White Book is inspired by Han Kang's text on loss, and Bowler found it cathartic, sensing her late mother in it.
Hannigan, serving as both conductor and vocalist, expressed calmness at the premiere.
She will continue as chief conductor of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra while maintaining her performance schedule.