Meet the musicians: Anders Krøger
interview
L
Live Klassisk20. November 2023
Welcome to our interview series with musicians from the classical music scene! Today we have the pleasure of presenting Anders Krøger, who was nominated by Åsmund Moen in the previous round. He is a composer and a radio host. Here he shares his thoughts on classical music and recommends upcoming concerts for both new and experienced concertgoers!
Name, instrument and profession (possibly place of work or study)
Anders Krøger, composer and radio host for "Jazzer om Klassisk" on radio Nova
What are you working on at the moment?
I am currently composing a work for Cello and Piano, with the outstanding musicians Marcus Michelin and Oskar Abel Valand Halvorsen. This will be premiered on January 27. In addition, I am one of two hosts of the radio program and podcast "Jazzer om klassisk".
Most overrated composer or piece?
We actually had "overrated composers" as the theme of the radio program. I had to say that I'm not a big fan of Joseph Haydn and Phillip Glass.
And at the other end of the spectrum... what music should everyone really get to experience?
Here I have a lot of thoughts. I think everyone should experience a Mahler symphony live once in their lives. I think it's one of the coolest things you can experience. In addition, I would highlight "Verklärte Nacht" by Arnold Schoenberg, which is one of my favorite pieces. If this is being played somewhere near you, I would make sure to secure a ticket.
Your last big concert experience - what made it so special?
In March this year, I had the world premiere of a new orchestral work. It was the NMH Symphony Orchestra playing under the direction of Edward Gardener himself. I grew up playing in an orchestra, and my dream has always been to write for the orchestra. It was great to have the opportunity, even with such a good conductor as well (!).
You are a composer. How would you describe a typical working day?
My working day is very varied, but it always includes music in one form or another. When I compose, I don't always write music. Sometimes I study other people's works, sometimes I read and sometimes I work on compositional technique. I also do some research work for the radio show/podcast, which I love because I'm very fond of music history.
What is the best thing about composing?
The best thing about composing is being in the flow zone: You're inspired, you have lots of ideas and every idea is brilliant! You imagine how good this work you're writing could be. Then it's fun! I also think it's cool, when the piece is finished, to meet the musicians and work with the music.
What is the hardest thing about composing?
It's when you realize how bad this work you're writing can be...But in all seriousness, contrary to popular belief, a composer does not compose only when he/she is motivated. It's hard work and when the motivation isn't there, it's hard to write anything.
Also, I'm a very social person and composing can be lonely.
Which living composer inspires you the most and why?
Until recently, I would probably answer Kaija Saariaho. She has meant a lot to me as a composer. I was lucky enough to get to know her a little, and she taught me a lot. Unfortunately, she died on June 2 this year. Now I might want to answer Lars Petter Hagen. I think he writes very beautiful and poetic music.
Can you remember a single event or experience that made you want to become a musician?
I knew quite early on that I wanted to work with music. When I was quite young, I spent a lot of time on my mother's computer composing in the notation program Finale. It was probably these lessons that made me realize that I was going to be a composer. My goal was to write something as good as Dvorak's 9th Symphony, which was my favorite work at the time.
Do you have any other role models? Is there anyone who has been particularly motivating or inspiring for you?
I love movies. Directors like Wes Anderson, Quentin Tarantino and Christopher Nolan inspire me.
Do you have any advice for "new listeners" who are curious about classical music and don't go to concerts very often?
To look out for number one, I would probably recommend listening to "Jazzer om klassisk". Either live on Radio Nova at 6pm on Mondays, or on the podcast that is released everywhere you listen to podcasts. We try to talk in a way that even those who are not already in the scene will enjoy it.
I think we in the classical music community could really benefit from rethinking the concert format. I think "new listeners" are more attracted to relaxing concerts than the very rigid ones. I think the Chamber Orchestra, Ensemble Allegria and Fram Concert Series are good at creating "chill and cool" concerts. Go to these!
Any upcoming concerts you would recommend?
I have to highlight my own concert on January 27. My new work for cello, piano and text will be performed in the Levin Hall at the Norwegian Academy of Music. It will be a large work where text and music are intertwined. I would also recommend the Oslo Sinfonietta's concert at the Opera House on November 25, where they will play new music by Rebecca Saunders! Very cool composer.
What misconceptions do you think people have about classical music or the musicians who perform it?
Probably the biggest misconception people have is that they think classical music is boring. That's wrong, it's awesome! It's the best music in the world! But unfortunately, I think we as a community are partly to blame for this misconception ourselves. Often when classical music is talked about in the media, it's done in a boring way.
Concert attire: Dressy or casual?
I like it casual, to be honest. I always wear casual clothes as a concertgoer as a matter of principle. I think it's nice when the performers are relaxed in style and.
Clapping between movements: for or against?
100% for! This is almost one of my pet causes. People should be allowed to clap if they think something is nice! If we want new people to feel welcome in the concert hall, we have to stop "clapping shaming".
Finally, who would you challenge to take over the baton?
I would like to pass the baton to Jesper Kramer-Johansen. Tuba player in the Air Force Band.
Foto: Anna Berg