Arna grew up hearing Norwegian songs in her home that her parents sang – especially on Saturday nights with their friends. She studied art at the National Academy of Art in Oslo and has received grants from the Jerome Foundation, the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council Fellowship, King Olav V Cultural Grant, and the American Scandinavian Foundation to study traditional folk music and folklore in Norway. Specializing in music from Telemark, Setesdal, Valdres, Gudbrandsdalen, and Trondelag, Arna sings ballads from the middle ages, works songs, hymns, cowcalls, and more. She also plays ancient instruments such as the langeleik and seljefloyte (overtone flute).