Echoes of the Fjord
Details of the 2025 European Brass Band Competition’s Gala Concert have been revealed, themed as ‘Echoes of the Fjord’. The audience can expect to be taken on a musical journey through Norwegian folk music, with both traditional and new music on stage. Old folk tunes meet modern brass band sounds as the Stavanger Brass Band and the European Youth Brass Band pay tribute to the Norwegian musical heritage.
You will hear well-known gems from Ole Paus and Lillebjørn Nilsen, two beloved Norwegian artists, where their timeless songs are given a new, magnificent brass dimension. But the gala concert will also provide a breath of fresh air from new composers such as Espen Westbye, Kjetil Djønne, Magnus Brandseth and Fredrick Schjelderup, who have all left their mark on the program with their innovative and folk music-inspired works.
The soloist for the evening, August Schieldrop, will illuminate with fairy tales and myths showcasing his virtuosity on tuba. August is a young tuba soloist from Norway, recognized for his expressive style of playing and his velvety smooth sound. He has performed as a soloist with all leading Norwegian orchestras, and he is a regular participant at prominent chamber music festivals in Scandinavia. August is also actively involved in new music, premiering solo pieces with orchestras, professional army bands, and chamber groups at Norway’s major stages. August has received several awards in recognition of his musical talent.
A spokesperson for the event commented, “The bands on stage, with their brilliant musicians, are preparing something very special. Here, tradition and innovation meet in a celebration of both music and community. Join us for an unforgettable evening where we let music bind us together, in a true celebration of Norwegian culture, passion and brass band magic!”
