On Thursday, April 3, the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra & Opera will premiere a new Norwegian symphony by Ståle Kleiberg. But how does a composer work with a symphony? What sources of inspiration does he draw on, and who or what has influenced his musical expression? You can gain insight into this and more during this evening's portrait talk.

A symphony about migration and identity
In the summer of 1825, the ship Restoration sets sail from Stavanger, heading for America. Three months later, the first Norwegian emigrants land in New York. This marks the start of Norwegian emigration to North America. Over the course of a century, almost 800,000 Norwegians had emigrated. Only Ireland had a higher number of emigrants in relation to its population.

Kleiberg's third symphony deals with this extensive emigration in the 18th and 19th centuries. The work is part of the preparations for the National Jubilee in 2030, where the theme for 2025 is migration and identity. The symphony is planned to be premiered as part of the National Emigrant Jubilee 2025, where Norwegian emigration history will be at the center.

A composer with international success
The Trondheim-based composer Ståle Kleiberg has achieved considerable international recognition. He has written commissioned works for leading orchestras, ensembles and soloists and is one of Norway's most performed contemporary composers. Kleiberg's music is characterized by a romantic style with a strong personal expression, which is particularly evident in his large vocal works. One of his most performed works is Requiem – for the Victims of Nazi Persecution, which has moved audiences worldwide.

A conversation with one of the founders of Norwegian music journalism
Bodil Maroni Jensen has dedicated her professional life to Norwegian music journalism. For over 30 years, she was part of NRK's music department, and for the last ten years she has run her own projects. Among other things, she has written the book Voices in Contemporary Music, in which Kleiberg is dedicated a separate chapter.

Together, Kleiberg and Maroni Jensen will provide a unique insight into the composer's working process, sources of inspiration and reflections on his latest symphony. This will be an evening for all music lovers – whether you are curious about classical music, contemporary composition or the history conveyed through tones and sounds.

The lecture is free, but you must get a ticket via the ticket link.
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Sometimes we have productions that deserve a little more in-depth exploration, and a better understanding of the people and processes behind the music. That's why, together with Trondheim Public Library, we have put together a series of events that will make you extra prepared for a trip into the world of classical music.