Renowned Icelandic-Chinese artist Laufey, known for her exceptional talents as a composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, has announced the creation of The Laufey Foundation. This initiative is dedicated to fostering young musicians by providing them with essential resources, particularly through youth orchestras, to help them achieve their potential.
Reflecting on the significance of the foundation, Laufey expressed her gratitude for the support and scholarships she received during her own musical journey. She hopes to offer similar opportunities to the next generation, stating, “The support and scholarships I received as a child have directly led to the career I have now. It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to provide the next generation with the same support and opportunities.”
The foundation will focus on making youth orchestra programs accessible to young musicians from diverse backgrounds. These programs are pivotal in equipping students with the experience necessary to excel in college, university ensembles, and further musical endeavors. The first grants will be awarded to prestigious groups such as the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, LA Phil’s YOLA program, The Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra, and two of Carnegie Hall’s national youth ensembles. The aim is to expand support to more orchestras globally in the future.
Laufey’s own journey, marked by participation in esteemed youth orchestra programs and a Presidential Scholarship to Berklee College of Music, highlighted the transformative impact of such opportunities. This drive to give back mirrors the significant support that helped Laufey find her passion for classical and jazz music.
In addition to launching her foundation, Laufey released her new album, “A Matter of Time,” on August 22 under Vingolf Recordings / AWAL. The album, which features the single “Tough Luck,” showcases her evolution as an artist. Laufey described the track as exploring a more intense side of emotions, noting, “‘Tough Luck’ is a fiery song about love gone wrong.”
The album represents a new chapter for Laufey, who described creating each album as crafting a new book of stories. Her previous works, including “Everything I Know About Love” and the Grammy-winning “Bewitched,” have been celebrated for their orchestral arrangements blended with jazz and bossa nova influences. “A Matter of Time” continues to build upon her unique sound, capturing the complexities of love and vulnerability expressed through her deeply personal musical narratives.
Laufey collaborated with co-producers Spencer Stewart and Aaron Dessner for this project, seeking to explore heavier themes and draw out imperfections in a more honest reflection of self. In doing so, she challenges expectations and embraces the full spectrum of human emotions in her music.
Fans can look forward to seeing Laufey perform live at Madison Square Garden in New York City on October 15 and 16, where she will undoubtedly captivate audiences with her signature sound.