Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Education Special – Norwegian Schools
Photo: Magne Sandnes
Shaping the musicians of the future A new generation of aspiring musicians representing a wide spectrum of musical genres come together at Manger Folk High School. For one year they develop and progress their musical aptitudes. The size of the small, but ambitious, Norwegian school reflects its commitment to gathering young people from different backgrounds to work together, create unity and form friendships for life. By Ingvild Vetrhus
“Our school is for everyone,” says principal Geir Rydland, emphasising the importance of having collaborations and experiences across different musical disciplines, instrument families as well as religions, backgrounds and opinions. Being a relatively small school housing only 50 to 60 students every year, facilitating a strong sense of unity and togetherness has become a vital focus. The folk high schools of the Nordic countries are known for an alternative 78 | Issue 94 | November 2016
teaching experience, including educating students without exams and grades. Manger Folk High School focuses on the musical and social development of young musicians, vocalists and producers in the making. The school also offers a course for students with special needs. Manger Folk High School has a tradition of preparing ambitious students for important auditions. These auditions are potential tickets to higher education within the discipline of music. The
school equally welcomes those who aim to improve their musical skills purely at hobby level. “We have a high academic level of music education taught by experienced staff who also teach at higher educational institutions,” says Rydland. Some students go on to study at recognised institutions, such as the prestigious Grieg Academy in Bergen.
Inclusion Based on the idea of learning for life, Manger Folk High School does not provide any formal qualifications. This is an environment where students are given a unique opportunity to practise their niche skills together with other people, to develop valuable teamwork skills. The boarding school lifestyle emphasises and develops social experiences and skills,