International ensemble Engegård Quartet has captured the hearts of classical music lovers with their exceptional performances of the core repertoire. However, in a bold move, the quartet is now showcasing their extraordinary musical abilities in the world of Norwegian Folk.
The group has released a series of videos featuring traditional Norwegian folk music, filmed in the stunning landscapes of Lofoten in collaboration with Aurora Borealis Multimedia AS. Each video in the series showcases a different folk melody or dance, with the quartet demonstrating their versatility and expertise in bringing these traditional pieces to life with their unique interpretation and musical sensibilities. The first video, “En Smuk Aftensang,” is a mesmerizing evening prayer from Kvæfjord, arranged by renowned composer Bjørn Andor Drage.
This piece has been a fan favorite in the quartet’s live performances for years. The second video, “Skotsk,” is a lively dance number from Lom, a town in central Norway. The quartet describes it as the perfect icebreaker, drawing in new fans with its infectious rhythm and energy. “Bruremarsj frå Eide,” the third video in the series, takes a more somber tone, inspired by the long march the bride and her close family and friends would take to meet the groom in traditional Norwegian weddings. The quartet’s talent and versatility shine in their fourth video, “Yoik Suite,” which features an all-new arrangement of the traditional folk melody, composed by Sigmund Lillebjerka. The attentive listener may even hear the distant singing of wolves from the plains of Lapland in this hauntingly beautiful piece.
The series concludes with “Haugelåt,” a narrative composition that combines the traditional folk melody Haugelåt with Grieg’s Opus 72. This piece tells the story of a farmer in search of his escaped bull, spurred on by the vision of a maiden. Engegård Quartet has been widely acclaimed for their musical prowess. They are two-time winners of the prestigious ‘Choc de Classica’ award, in June 2019 and September 2023. Their debut CD was praised as “breathtaking” by The Strad, and their second release won Pizzicato magazine’s ‘Supersonic Award’.
The quartet has been featured in publications such as Gramophone and BBC Music Magazine, and their videos have gained popularity on Classic FM’s Facebook page. With their stunning performances of traditional Norwegian folk music, Engegård Quartet is breaking boundaries and captivating audiences worldwide. Their passion and dedication to both the core classical repertoire and the rich traditions of Norwegian folk music make them a truly exceptional and diverse ensemble in the world of music.