PROGRAM 2026
Two of the country's foremost musicians share stage for the first time at the Northern Lights Festival's opening concert.

Playfulness, creativity and creative joy are suitable descriptions for both festival profile, Ragnhild Hemsing, and millennial artist Ola Kvernberg, both of whom have their roots in folk music. These are performers who have pushed and expanded musical genres in their own way, opening up exciting new expressions. This will be an exciting meeting between classical, jazz and folk music!
Ragnhild Hemsing has been playing the violin since she was 5 years old, and made her debut at the age of 13 on stage with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra. She has won numerous international awards and all the major youth competitions in Norway in her field. Her ability to combine expressions from folk music with classical music has made her noted both internationally and here at home. Through Ragnhild's oeuvre, the hardingfela has also found its place in art music, much to the delight of critics and audiences alike.
Ola Kvernberg is one of our most versatile musicians and composers. He has released a number of critically acclaimed albums, both in his own name and with others. Ola has received Spellemannspris both in the Jazz category (Liarbird, 2011) and in the Pop/Rock category (Steamdome II, 2021), as well as several nominations. He has also won the Amanda for Best Film Score for the film Chase for wind. His unique blend of jazz, classical and folk music has made him a highly regarded musician, at home and abroad.
Welcome to a fireworks display of an opening concert, featuring everything from classic prunes to saterdals-afro, as well as a smoking fresh commissioned piece!