Geirr Tveitt

A Special Performance by the Phenomenal Tord Gustavsen Trio

Enter an auditory journey like no other, with the captivating works of Norwegian composer, Geirr Tveitt, brought to life by the sublime artistry of the Tord Gustavsen Trio. STAGE+ is thrilled to host this one-of-a-kind musical experience, celebrating the genius of Tveitt's compositions.

Geirr Tveitt (1908–1981) was a highly influential Norwegian composer and pianist, renowned for his deep engagement with Norwegian folk traditions and his innovative orchestral and piano works. Central to Tveitt's legacy is his commitment to collecting and adapting traditional melodies from the Hardanger region—a project that became the heart of his life's work.

Tveitt's Magnum Opus and Notable Works

Tveitt's magnum opus includes the Fifty Folktunes from Hardanger for piano (Op. 150) and A Hundred Hardanger Tunes (Op. 151). These works demonstrate his unique ability to capture the atmosphere, mood, and mystical qualities of Norwegian folklore, while employing sophisticated harmony and orchestration. The orchestral suites drawn from these folk tunes are particularly acclaimed.

Tveitt studied with renowned composers such as Honegger in Paris, and his exposure to diverse musical traditions is reflected in his style, which merges influences from Stravinsky, Bartók, Debussy, and Ravel with Norwegian idioms. Other important works include the ballet Baldur's Dreams, which achieved critical success in Oslo and Paris and represents a pinnacle of Tveitt's early period. Unfortunately, a substantial portion of Tveitt’s output—estimated at around 80%—was lost in a disastrous fire at his barn studio in 1970, making the surviving works even more significant.

Despite these losses, Tveitt's preserved works continue to showcase his mastery in blending folk heritage with modernist techniques, earning him a place among Norway’s most fascinating and original musical voices.

Tveitt's Legacy

Geirr Tveitt remains a central figure in Norwegian music, not only for his creative achievements but for his dedication to preserving and transforming folk music traditions. The surviving suites and piano works serve as a testament to his vision and to the enduring power of his music.

A Mesmerizing Performance by the Tord Gustavsen Trio

Delighted to pay homage to these masterpieces, the Tord Gustavsen Trio, acclaimed worldwide for their innovative musical interpretations, offer their renditions of Tveitt's captivating compositions. The synergy between the Trio and Tveitt's music is nothing short of mesmerizing, promising an unforgettable evening unfolding narratives through the universal language of music.

Join STAGE+ to dive deep into the fascinating world of Geirr Tveitt. Immerse yourself in his groundbreaking compositions and experience the soundscape through the skillful performance of the Tord Gustavsen Trio. We're excited to welcome you to this incredible journey, where the magic of music and the power of performances meet.

Book your tickets for this unique experience, where we celebrate the delightful harmony of brilliant compositions and impeccable performances. Experience the magic, only on STAGE+.