Welcome to our interview relay with musicians from the classical music scene! Today, we have the pleasure of presenting Ruth Meyer. She works as a singer and composer. Here, she shares her thoughts on classical music and recommends upcoming concerts for both new and experienced concertgoers!
Name, instrument, and profession?
Ruth Wilhelmine Meyer, singer and composer, based in Oslo.
What are you currently working on?
I'm rehearsing for a concert at Parkteatret on October 20th, where I will perform three of my own works with Frode Haltli, alongside many wonderful musician colleagues on stage: including Eir Indrehaug, Ernst Simon Glaser, Trio Brax, and Caroline Eidsten Dahl. I'm also composing the commissioned work "The Hidden Creation" for Nordic Voice.
Most overrated composer or piece?
Pass!
And on the opposite end... which music should everyone really experience?
Brahms: Rhapsody for Alto, Men's Choir, and Orchestra. Text by Goethe. My favorite piece of all. The text and music converse so well, and the content of the text is particularly thought-provoking and important.
Your last great concert experience—what made it so special?
Leif Ove Andsnes and Vilde Frang playing Violin Sonata No. 1 by Béla Bartók at the Rosendal Chamber Music Festival.
Which living composer inspires you the most, and why?
Sofia Gubaidulina. She is an awakened mystic.
Can you recall a single event or experience that made you want to pursue being a musician?
I heard "Ancient Voices of Children" by Crumb when I was 26 years old. It changed my brain. That's when I truly understood the power of music.
Do you have any role models? Is there anyone who has been particularly motivating or inspiring for you?
POING inspires with their creative urge and omnivorous music; Tora Augestad inspires with her fearlessness, skill, and enormous capacity.
Do you have advice for "new listeners" who are curious about classical music and don't go to concerts often?
Just go, even if you hadn't planned to. If you want, you can even take a nap. Don't think you have to understand; just enjoy. How about starting with a concert by the Engegård Quartet?
Minister of classical music in Norway for one day—what would you do?
On this day, there would be outstanding performers playing in all schools in Norway.
Name one thing not many people know about you?
That I'm a speedster at picking berries in the woods! :)
What do you like to do to relax when you're not playing or practicing?
Do you have any special hobbies? I climb the steep trails up to Grefsenkollen (I live nearby).
Concert attire: formal or casual?
You also use your eyes at concerts, so be conscious of what you're wearing in relation to the concert setting.
Applauding between movements: for or against?
Yes to spontaneous reactions at concerts.
Any upcoming concerts you'd recommend?
The aforementioned concert at Parkteatret. So many great musicians and a varied program of contemporary Norwegian composers.
Lastly—who would you challenge to take over the baton? Iver Bogen!