Meet the musicians: Marianne Thorsen
interview
C
Concert Creator21. March 2025
Welcome to our interview relay with musicians from the classical music scene! Today, we are delighted to introduce Marianne Thorsen. She is a violinist, and here she shares her thoughts on classical music and recommends upcoming concerts suitable for both newcomers and experienced concertgoers!
Name, instrument, and occupation?
Marianne Thorsen, violinist, lecturer at the Department of Music, NTNU in Trondheim.
What are you currently working on?
I am practicing Dvorak's String Sextet, which we will perform at the Vinterfestspill in Røros. We also have auditions at NTNU this week, and it's always exciting to meet the string players applying here.
Is there any music you think everyone should experience?
Schubert's String Quintet in C Major, 2nd movement—and Bach’s Chaconne…
Your most recent significant concert experience—what made it special?
Gil Shaham performing Beethoven’s Violin Concerto with the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra (TSO). Absolutely incredible playing, great energy, and communication with the audience.
Can you recall one specific event or experience that made you decide to pursue music professionally?
Music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I believe my older brothers, who also played instruments, were decisive in inspiring me to play violin. Otherwise, I have encountered so many inspiring musicians over the years that it’s difficult to pinpoint one single experience.
Do you have any role models or someone particularly motivating or inspiring to you?
When I was a student, I loved listening to the great violinists—Milstein, Perlman, Stern, Ida Haendel… HMV music store in London had an extensive selection of recordings, and I often spent time there.
Any advice for “new listeners” curious about classical music and who don’t often attend concerts?
Perhaps listen a bit to the music ahead of time, so you know what to expect, and then attend the concert—nothing compares to experiencing music being created in the moment! Alternatively, just go to a concert and let yourself be surprised by music completely unfamiliar to you. Listen widely and discover what appeals to you.
Minister of classical music in Norway for one day—what would you do?
Provide free music education for elementary school students! Integrate more music into school curriculums!
What do you enjoy doing to relax when you're not playing or practicing? Any particular hobbies?
I enjoy walking my dog (miniature schnauzer Tilly), doing something fun with my family (husband and two children), knitting, reading, cinema, attending concerts, and good food. :)
What misconceptions do you think people have about classical music or musicians who perform it?
That we are so different or eccentric.
Concert attire: Formal or casual?
Smart casual. 🙂
Applauding between movements: For or against?
For!