A poet on the piano
In this country, Ketil Bjørnstad is primarily known as a novelist whose books are repeatedly on bestseller lists around the world. But Ketil Bjørnstad is also one of Norway's most important pianists. Originally from a classical background, he is now clearly associated with jazz, albeit not jazz in the classical sense. He made his debut as a concert pianist with the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra at the age of 16. The young Bjørnstad's career in classical music would have been a foregone conclusion had he not been caught up in Oslo's young and vibrant jazz scene. Impressed by the playful approach of jazz musicians and improvisation, it became clear that he wanted above all to write and play his own compositions. Rooted in classical and European concert music and inspired by jazz, the pianist impresses with his melodious yet subtle playing and his multi-faceted improvisational skills. (Press release)