Ragnhild Hemsing has built a remarkable career as a violinist and a leading interpreter of traditional Norwegian music, thanks in part to her use of the Hardanger fiddle on four albums with Berlin Classics. This unique instrument, Norway’s national fiddle, features sympathetic strings that enrich its distinctive sound.
Curious about how Vivaldi’s Four Seasons might sound on the Hardanger fiddle, Hemsing explored the parallels between Baroque music and the folk traditions of her native Valdres. Her interpretation incorporates ornamentation and rhythmic nuances from Norwegian folk music, offering a fresh take on the classic work. She collaborated with composer Tormod Tvete Vik and the Baroque ensemble Barokkanerne to adapt both solo and orchestral parts, highlighting the stylistic links between Vivaldi’s Italian influences and Norwegian traditions.
The album also includes other Baroque pieces, like Marin Marais’ Alcione prelude, and three traditional tunes from Valdres. To bridge past and present, Hemsing commissioned Fantasi by contemporary composer Agnes Ida Pettersen, blending the Hardanger fiddle with historical instruments in new ways.
Hemsing plays three Hardanger fiddles on the album, including one once owned by famed violinist Ole Bull. Crafted by Erik Johnsen Helland, it is now on long-term loan from the Dextra Musica Foundation. The other two, made in the late 20th century by Anders Aasen, round out the sound of this innovative project.
This exciting fusion of Italian Baroque music with Norwegian folk traditions results in a program that stands unparalleled in the history of music.
See trailer here
Label: Berlin Classics
Release date: 18.10.2024
EAN: 885470034164