It all started in 1988 with Trondheim’s Music Professor Bjarne Fiskum. His formidable ability to seek out talented young musicians, provide them with the skills to perform at their best and then to encourage them to give the maximum of themselves, became the driving force behind the early success of the ensemble. Øyvind Gimse continued the job as Artistic Director and created exciting and innovative projects. The ensemble soon became known for its energy and warmth. On its first foreign tour, London audiences wouldn’t stop clapping. Trondheimsolistene turned professional, but the spirit of youth stayed and student musicians became part of its constitution.

Major collaborations followed. Anne-Sophie Mutter sought-out the ensemble’s energy and verve and many others tapped into its openness and sensitivity. Geir Inge Lotsberg, Artistic Director 2017-2024, instilled a new meticulousness in the ensemble and began taking them down unfamiliar musical paths. As Artistic Partner, the dynamic cellist Alisa Weilerstein brought new dimensions to sound and mindset.

Trondheimsolistene is recognised for representing chamber music at the highest level. Passionate performances, innovation and innate musicianship are the watchwords and that is whether they are making critically acclaimed recordings, playing live from the Lofoten Islands to Berlin, or forging meaningful partnerships with musicians of all disciplines.

What makes them unique is that Trondheim always shines through. The close connection with the city, it’s nature and Norway’s ever-changing seasons is exactly what you hear in the unmistakable Trondheim sound – an authentic, honest and invigorating performance.

Artistic director from August 2024 is Guro Kleven Hagen.

Photo: Terese Samuelsen