During their first research trip to Norway, as they drove around the country hoping to be inspired by the beauty of the landscape, Frozen’s producers stopped at a shop and picked up some CDs for the journey.

In turn, the producers discovered the ethereal sound of Cantus, the then-hidden voices of Norway, and the ‘yoik’ – a traditional form of song from the Sami people of the Nordic countries.

Cantus – 32 women from the northern city of Trondheim – not only provided the opening music to the film, but also inspired the costume design with their traditional dresses (bunads) and themes of strong female characters and sisterly love.

Comparable to the chanting of some Native American cultures, the yoik often mimics the sounds of nature, and this is evoked in many of Cantus’ recordings on the new album. The lead track, ‘Vuelie’ – or ‘Earth Song’ – weaves the voices of the all-female choir with steady chanting reminiscent of repetitive rain or snow as in the familiar opening to the hit film.

Written by composer Frode Fjellheim, the involvement with Disney has given the choir and composer much attention across the globe. Since the film’s release in 2013, Disney enthusiasts as well as music and culture lovers have flocked to the country to experience the real Frozen.

 “With this new album, we hope to expose the world to the rich heritage and music in Norway. I’m so proud of the choir, who've worked tirelessly on the recordings. It has been a truly wonderful project to work on,” said Fjellheim via a press statement.

Since its establishment in 1986, Cantus has been led by one of Norway's most acclaimed conductors, Tove Ramlo-Ystad. A singer herself and the choir’s Artistic Director, Ystad focuses on pure and simple vocals, honing in on the beauty of the natural tone, while still maintaining homogeneity. This sound lends itself well to contemporary and traditional Norwegian folk music, for the harmonious yet personal sound for which Cantus have become renowned.

 “We have a saying in Cantus that we give from our hearts to your hearts. With our music, we have the opportunity to give something to other people, to give joy and happiness, and to be a part of that is very special.  I am tremendously proud of everything the girls have achieved,” Ystad said in a press release.

The choir members are women aged between 20 and 40, and all have day jobs outside the choir, ranging from student to nurse, hairdresser, lawyer and architect. The powerful female bond between choir members and their charismatic conductor is evident in their live performances and recordings, and is one of the secrets behind their success, says Decca Records, the record company now bringing the group to an international audience.

The album was recorded in Trondheim, and produced by Jon Cohen, who has 21 top five classical albums – including 14 number ones – and 17 Classical Brit awards to his name.

The album will be released on May 12^th ahead of Norway’s national day on May 17^th, which sees processions and celebrations throughout the streets, with women all donning the traditional bunads worn by the choir.

The recent signing to Decca Records sees the choir embark on a new chapter in their musical journey, bestowing audiences with their harmonious sounds and reflecting the musical heritage of Norway.