Northern Accord is a chamber music trio comprised of mezzo-soprano, clarinet and piano that performs both well-loved classics and little-known contemporary pieces composed for its distinctive instrumentation. With the mission of offering high-caliber music that is accessible and enjoyable, Northern Accord constantly challenges itself to unearth pieces that will suit its spirited, quirky and personable nature. Audiences connect quickly with its fun and heartfelt approach to music-making and find themselves drawn into the stories told through song. The wide range of possible sonorities produced by the clarinet, voice and piano allows the ensemble to offer everything from irreverent texts to warm textures that communicate both simple beauty and complex emotions.

The ensemble connects with audiences through works ranging from Brahms, Spohr, Mozart and Stravinsky to folk songs by lesser-known modern day composers. With each member having special ties to Alaska, Northern Accord includes in its repertoire a collection of pieces written by Alaskan artists, often on Alaskan themes, such as the exploration of human relationships to nature. All of this amounts to a varied and entertaining program, presenting a landscape of sounds and textures only possible through this unique yet underexposed combination of instruments.

Northern Accord is comprised of Kirsten Gunlogson (mezzo-soprano), Liz Gunlogson (clarinet), and Eileen Cornett (piano), each of whom brings to the group extensive performing credentials. Mezzo-soprano Kirsten Gunlogson holds a Master of Music degree from Indiana University and has performed with Michigan Opera Theatre, Palm Beach Opera, Pittsburgh Opera, Toledo Opera, Indianapolis Opera, Tulsa Opera and Nashville Opera. Miss Gunlogson recently debuted at Carnegie Hall and has performed as soloist with the Nashville Symphony, Fairfax Symphony and Indianapolis Symphonic Choir. Miss Gunlogson is also holds the position of Assistant Professor of Voice at The University of Utah. Clarinetist Liz Gunlogson holds a Doctor of Music degree in clarinet performance from Florida State University and is on the faculty of the University of New Hampshire. She performs regularly with ensembles throughout the United States including Keith Brion’s New Sousa Band, Tallahassee Symphony, Annapolis Opera and Opera Vivente. In addition, Liz performs as a freelance musician in the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area. Eileen Cornett is Director of the Graduate Vocal Accompanying Program at Peabody Conservatory and a faculty coach with the Peabody Opera Theatre. She began her professional career as music director of the Croswell Opera House in Adrian, MI, and has subsequently conducted, coached, written, and arranged musical and operatic productions for companies ranging from the Kennedy Center’s theatres to the Theatre an der Wien in Vienna, Austria. She performs as a guest coach/accompanist for the Baltimore and Annapolis Opera companies, a recital partner to many singers throughout the East Coast, a faculty member of the Fairbanks (Alaska) Summer Arts Festival, and as a pianist for the Capitol Steps.

Northern Accord performs regularly on concert series and college campuses throughout the United States. In addition to concert performances, Northern Accord offers master classes on its individual instruments (including accompanying) or chamber music.