The Norwegian roots of Leif Ove Andsnes

Interview about the composer Geir Tveitt on Bachtrack

His previous visits to the Muziekgebouw made it pretty clear to everybody, Leif Ove Andsnes excels in the classical and romantic repertoire. On March 15 he will return to the Grote Zaal (Main Hall) for works by Schubert and Brahms. But the Norwegian pianist chose a the central work of this concert that is closer to home: the Piano Sonata No. 29 by his compatriot Geirr Tveitt (1908–1981). A composer unknown even to many classical music experts. In an interview with Bachtrack.com, Andsnes explains why he chose this piece as the centerpiece of his recital.

Andsnes believes that Tveitt's characterful and idiosyncratic music also deserves to be known beyond the borders of Scandinavia. “He was a kind of Norwegian Bartók,” says Andsnes. “He was very fond of folk music and collected many folk dances and folk melodies – especially from the western part of Norway.” Tveitt grew up in Hardanger, famous for its musical traditions and natural beauty. The way in which Tveitt incorporated the traditional music of Norway into his music differs from the classical tradition of, for example, Grieg. “Tveitt thought that Edvard Grieg used folk music in far too classical a way,” notes Andsnes.

Read the full interview on Bachtrack.com