Welcome to our interview series with musicians from the classical music scene. Today we have the pleasure of presenting Frida Fredrikke Waaler Wærvågen. She is the principal cellist in the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and group leader in Ensemble Allegria. She shares her thoughts on classical music and recommends upcoming concerts for both new and experienced concertgoers!
Question: Name, instrument and profession
Frida Fredrikke Waaler Wærvågen, cello. Principal cello in Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, group leader in Ensemble Allegria and cellist in ATEM string quartet.
What are you doing at the moment?
Right now we're having a reunion with my fine string quartet, ATEM String Quartet. We are preparing two concerts in Tønsberg and Oslo on Wednesday October 4 and 5.
Most overrated composer or piece?
Wow, that's a scary question to answer. But I can say that I think we should be better at playing more varied programs, instead of repeating the same classics all the time.
And at the other end... what music should everyone really get to experience?
My list is really quite long, but as a cellist, of course I have to mention Elgar and Dvorak cello concerto. I'm just saying; what would life be without those works?
Your last big concert experience - what made it so special?
The song cat with BFO last weekend! It was absolutely magical. The stage was filled with 350 singers from various children's choirs and the hall was packed with audience members. Everyone sang their hearts out, myself included, even though I was playing! It was incredibly nice and special and of course a slightly different repertoire, with well-known Norwegian children's songs, but it was very touching!
Do you have any advice for "new listeners" who are curious about classical music and don't go to concerts very often?
I wish the threshold was even lower to go and listen to anything. You're guaranteed a powerful experience when you go to a concert. If a Star Wars concert is what it takes to get people to show up in a concert hall, then I hope that the same people dare to come back for something that is not quite so widely known! Music is there to create emotions, all emotions, and not least to be in the moment. We should be able to cover everything and more than we can in today's society. I myself am extremely happy to work with music. I don't have a chance to think about the laundry or things I should have done while I'm playing. It demands my full attention, and it does the same for the listeners. So in a way, you could say that music is a sanctuary. It certainly is for me, both as a listener and a musician.
Any upcoming concerts you would recommend?
I've already mentioned my concert with Atem this week, otherwise I encourage everyone in Eastern Norway to make a trip (or two) to Bergen, to experience Grieghallen and my fantastic orchestra, BFO! You won't regret it!
Finally, who would you challenge to take over the baton?
Marie Lille Haugen, who has just started a new job at Marinemusikken in Horten, my dear hometown.