Henning Kraggerud, born on 23 June 1973 in Oslo, Norway, is a multifaceted musician whose career as a violinist, violist, composer, conductor, and educator has earned him international recognition. His holistic approach to music, rooted in his Norwegian heritage, makes him a vital figure in classical music today.
Henning Kraggerud
Critics widely praise Kraggerud for his natural musicianship and ability to forge emotional connections with listeners. His performances are described as vibrant and persuasive, with a rich palette of violin timbres that bring fresh energy to both standard and lesser-known repertoires.
What sets Kraggerud apart is his ability to bridge tradition and innovation, blending his Norwegian identity with a global outlook. His performances exude warmth and authenticity, his compositions tell universal stories, and his leadership roles reflect a commitment to the future of music.
To celebrate his birthday on 23 June, let’s feature some of his most iconic performances and recordings.
Henning Kraggerud Performs Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, “Winter”
Mozart Concertos
Released on the Naxos label in 2016, Henning Kraggerud’s interpretation of the Mozart Violin Concertos showcases his remarkable ability to breathe fresh life into classical staples.
It was recorded with the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra, where Kraggerud serves as both soloist and conductor.
His approach is characterised by a light and energetic touch that blends technical precision with a lyrical warmth in order to highlight the youthful exuberance of Mozart’s compositions. Critics have lauded the recording for its clarity and expressive finesse, with The Guardian calling his interpretations “eloquent and beautiful.”
The significance of this recording lies in Kraggerud’s ability to honour Mozart’s classical clarity while infusing it with a modern, Nordic sensibility. His dual role as soloist and conductor allows for a unified artistic vision, with tempi that feel brisk yet natural and phrasing that emphasizes Mozart’s playful lyricism.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Violin Concerto No. 4 in D Major, K. 218 (Henning Kraggerud, violin; Norwegian Chamber Orchestra)
Victimae Paschali
Henning Kraggerud
Henning Kraggerud’s recording of his own composition, “Victimae Paschali,” stands as a testament to his multifaceted artistry as both composer and performer. Composed in Cardiff in March 2016 and dedicated to violist Soon-Mi Chung, this work is a modern setting of a Latin Easter hymn arranged in various versions for solo violin, strings, choir, and orchestra. Kraggerud’s recording captures the spiritual depth and emotional resonance of the piece, conveying a luminous and introspective quality. It blends the hymn’s ancient modal character with contemporary harmonic richness.
Critics have praised the composition for its evocative beauty, and Kraggerud for his seamless integration of composition and performance. The significance of this recording lies in Kraggerud’s ability to bridge historical and contemporary musical worlds, blending the Gregorian chant tradition with a signature romantic and narrative-driven style.
Henning Kraggerud Performs Kraggerud’s “Victimae Paschali”
Nordic Violin Favourites
Released on the Naxos label, Henning Kraggerud’s album Nordic Violin Favourites is a captivating showcase of his deep connection to Scandinavian music and his exceptional artistry as a violinist. The album features works by prominent Nordic composers alongside lesser-known gems that highlight the region’s rich musical heritage.
Critics have widely praised the recording for its authenticity and Kraggerud’s ability to capture the essence of Scandinavian music. A reviewer lauded his “fluent technique and marvellously beautiful tone,” noting that his performances reveal an “unerring musicality.”
Kraggerud presents himself as a champion of Scandinavian composers, bringing both familiar and obscure works to a global audience. His Norwegian heritage infuses the performances with authenticity, while his virtuosic yet sensitive approach ensures accessibility for listeners new to the repertoire.
Wilhelm Stenhammar: 2 Sentimental Romances, Op. 28 (Henning Kraggerud, violin; Dalasinfoniettan; Bjarte Engeset, cond.)
Kreisler’s Charm
Henning Kraggerud’s performances of Fritz Kreisler showcase his ability to naturally channel the Viennese violinist-composer’s charm, lyricism, and technical finesse. Kraggerud’s expressive style, blending warmth, elegance, and a touch of Nordic introspection, beautifully captures the nostalgic and singing quality of Kreisler’s music.
Balancing its sentimental allure with precise articulation, Kraggerud’s performances are highly praised for their emotional depth and stylistic fidelity. According to a critic, “the music is beautifully etched, containing a moment of pure heartfelt lyricism.”
Henning Kraggerud’s artistry as a violinist, composer, conductor, and educator weaves a vibrant tapestry that bridges Nordic heritage with global innovation. Through his luminous recordings, compositions, and performances, he reveals himself as a musician of profound versatility and emotional depth. Paired with his commitment to storytelling and cultural authenticity, Kraggerud invites us to rediscover the power of music to connect, inspire, and transcend.
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