Ole Bull
The Musician and Inspirer

Known as one of the greatest Norwegian musicians ever, Ole Bull (1810-1880) distinguished himself as a pioneer, ushering in the modern era with his innovative musical style.

Ole Bull was more than a musician from Bergen; he was truly a citizen of the world. He became known to the world not only by his music and as a violinist, but also for his active social involvement.
Inspirer and motivator
During the establishment of the Norwegian nation after 1814, Ole Bull was a source of inspiration and motivation for other famous Norwegian poets, authors, playwrights and composers such as Henrik Wergeland, Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, Henrik Ibsen and Edvard Grieg.

Lysøen was Ole Bull’s little kingdom - a fairytale island with a magnificent villa made of wood. It has a beautiful dome, twisted pillars, arcades, carvings, steps and towers. Lysøen was a reflection of his many journeys - a lovely mixture of the world.

- I do not understand what Ole Bull was able to hear in my childishly naiv playing at that time. But he became very serious and spoke earnestly with my parents...Suddenly Ole Bull came over to me, shook me in his peculiar fashion and said, "you are going to Leipzig to become an artist!"
(From Griegs diary)

MUSICANORD
The Consert Maker of Bergen


Michael Sûssmann Art Director Musica Nord

With more than 1000 concerts organized since 1993, MusicaNord has earned a reputation as the Concert Maker of Bergen

The foundation MusicaNord was establsihed in 1991. We opened our first concert serie in 1993 in the home of ancient violon virtuoso Ole Bull 81810 - 1880), and had concerts there for 5 years.

In 1997 we started the Floien-Concerts, with 70 concerts every summer at the Top of Floien Mountain.

Then, in the year 2000, our Bergen International Chamber Music Festival came to life. This very fine event we kept for 4 years, and later transferred it into Grieg in Bergen.

Grieg in Bergen is now our main festival, and a long lasting one. Starting normally around 20th of June, it runs until almost end of August.

In 2004, MusicaNord established the Ole Bull Prize, which is awarded every year.

Apart from support from the Norwegian Music Counsil, we also receive support from Bergen kommune, Hordaland Fylkeskommune, and from different commercial supporters (see Partners).

MusicaNord has through the years also produced events like the Bergen Story (performed numerous time) closed events for conferences and congresses, and different events inside chamber music.

Last updated 4. March 2010