My old pedagogue Nadia Boulanger once said: “The geniouses were great musicians. Without knowing it. But posterity knows that they also touched the mysterious”. This is how I regard the non-material in our existence, says Kvandal on the occasion of his 70th Anniversary.
Learn more about Johan Kvandal and his works by reading excerpts from newspaper articles and anniversary publications. Please take a look at the reviews too.
Kjell Bækkelund: His world of sound is international
When today’s Music Norway occupies a natural place on the international map, it is due not only to orchestras and larger ensembles, but to many of our composers` capacities and efforts. The now 75-year-old Johan Kvandal keeps a natural place here.
Composer in demand
Some talents are precocious and reach fame early. Others gain their greatest successes later in life. Johan Kvandal belongs to the latter cathegory. After entering the retirement age he is more sought-after, diligently performed and popular than ever before. Tomorrow, the composer celebrates his 75th birthday. Continue reading
BBC impressed by Norwegians
Robert Layton is a central figure in the BBC’s musical productions. Renowned on the international music scene for his overview and engagement. He is impressed by Johan Kvandal’s ‘Antagonia’ for orchestra.
Kvandal’s protest release
Finally, the Norwegian composer Johan Kvandal (78), one of Norway’s most performed composers has fulfilled his long time dream of having his most important works recorded. He has worked on the case for a long time and finally decided, almost in protest, to use a Russian orchestra.
Layton: – We should be listening to more music by Kvandal in England
Praises Norwegian music. – I am deeply impressed by the variety of the Norwegian music scene! It is not just anybody expressing the laudatory words: Robert Layton, a main character on the rich music scene in London.
Duo Concertante premiere in New York
Sunday is Norway’s day at the Lincoln Centre in New York. But not only Grieg will be performed. Johan Kvandal will also be celebrated.
– If I could only escape this flight. I dread it so terribly!
Missa Brevis world premiere: Strong musical charisma
The premiere of Missa Brevis was a sincere meeting with our own time. Modern music which inspires confidence due to authenticity and charisma.
‘Bommen’. A personal portrait of Kvandal by Arne Nordheim
By the beginning of the 50s there was still a scent of fairytales, of Asbjørnsen and Moe, of Halfdan Egedius and Arne Garborg in the hills of Bærum. The occasional battle cry from Henrik Sørensen could still be heard in the landscape. The train to Slependen station took the novice right back to the golden age in Norwegian music, literature and art. Up the hill, and at the gate to no. 21 in Gyssestadkollen, one suddenly stood at the threshold of the fairy castle Soria Moria.
“Timeless – if we dare” by artist Odd Nerdrum
The dialogue with our own times is prophane and victories are local. The goals are in the eyes of others. They are making themselves up and hiding from each other. But the free spirit is nowhere to be seen. Continue reading