Yann Tiersen – the French composer who captivated the world with the iconic soundtrack to Amélie – is currently on his "Polar Sonics Tour", a sailing journey that began in Svalbard and follows the Norwegian coast.

In August, he will dock his sailboat in Egersund and give an exclusive solo concert at Bakkebø Church, blending piano and electronics from his new double album Rathlin from a Distance | The Liquid Hour.

"Our tour is more than music – it's about rethinking the role of art in a world facing climate collapse. Norway, a country navigating the tension between oil exploitation and progressive ideals, provides the perfect context for this exploration. From the philosophies of Arne Næss to the harsh realities of Svalbard, where climate change is most extreme, we're inspired to push for radical action.

This isn’t a traditional tour. We’ll be performing in unconventional spaces, sometimes for free, because we believe music should not revolve around profit. The capitalist norms of touring need to disappear; instead, we’re focusing on sustainability and connection. This is about proving another way is possible, where creativity thrives without exploitation."
— Yann Tiersen, May 2025

Yann Tiersen has long filled cultural venues and concert halls across Europe. Now, this is a rare chance to experience him in the intimate setting of Bakkebø Church in Egersund.