Born in Akureyri, Iceland, Hilmar Thórdarson (b. 1960) is a pioneering composer and researcher whose work stands at the innovative crossroads of acoustic tradition and digital evolution. His artistic vision is deeply rooted in the raw, elemental forces of Icelandic nature and Nordic mythology, which he transforms into "musically enigmatic landscapes" and abstract sonic forms.
Artistic Innovation & Research
Thórdarson is widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in interactive composition and mixed media. His most significant technological contribution is the ConDiS (Conducting Digital System), which includes the custom-built “ConGlove”. This digital conducting glove allows a conductor to manipulate electronic sounds—controlling volume, tempo, and spatial panning—through physical gestures, effectively treating electronics with the same expressive precision as a traditional orchestral score.
Educational Background
His academic pedigree reflects a global pursuit of excellence in music theory and composition:
BA from the Reykjavík College of Music (1985).
MFA from the California Institute of the Arts (1989).
MM from the Yale School of Music (1991).
Doctorate in Artistic Research from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) (2019).
He has further expanded his expertise as a visiting scholar at prestigious institutions such as Stanford University’s CCRMA and UC Berkeley’s CNMAT.
Leadership & Impact
Throughout his career, Thórdarson has been a pillar of the Icelandic and Nordic music communities. He founded the Kopavogur Computer Center (KCMC) in 1995 to broaden access to computer music education and established the New Media Lab at the Iceland Academy of the Arts. His leadership roles include:
Chairman of the Icelandic Music Information Centre.
Board Member of the Icelandic Composers Society.
Founder of RAFlost, Iceland's annual festival of electronic arts.
Major Works & Recognition
Thórdarson's compositions have been performed worldwide by leading ensembles such as the Trondheim Sinfonietta, Caput, and the Iceland Symphony Orchestra. Notable works include:
Sort Glimmer / Hrafntinna (Black Obsidian): A transdisciplinary work for large ensemble and mixed media.
Kuuki no Sukima (Between the Air): A signature piece utilizing the ConDiS system.
Hljóðs bið ek (Hearing I Ask): Inspired by the mythic poem Völuspá.
Goblins from the Land of Ice: An interactive multimedia art work featuring Japanese Butoh dance.
His contributions have been honored with the Cultural Award of the Year for the ART2000 festival and the DV Cultural Prize. Currently based in Norway, Thórdarson continues to push the boundaries of how human expression and digital technology harmonize to create the music of the future.
