Meet the musicians: Espen Leite
interview
L
Live Klassisk2 min read|30. September 2024
Welcome to our relay interview series with musicians from the classical music scene! Today we have the pleasure of presenting Espen Leite. He works as an accordionist. Here he shares his thoughts on classical music and recommends upcoming concerts for both new and experienced concertgoers!
Name, instrument and profession?
Espen Leite, accordion, freelance musician.
What are you working on at the moment?
Currently starting up a tango trio with May-Britt Wagnild, singer, and violinist Stine Rem Aarønes. Also preparing a record recording with Tora Augestad.
Which music do you think everyone should experience?
Everyone should experience Arvo Paert.
Your latest big concert experience - what made it so special?
The latest big concert experience was in Warsawa as soloist and orchestral musician in the premiere of Grzeh Piotrowski's music with folk musicians from all over the world and a symphony orchestra.
Which living composer inspires you most, and why?
Ola kvernberg and his Steamdome. Fearless, with a huge capacity for work.
Can you remember one single event or experience that made you want to commit to becoming a musician?
I became a musician in my head when I heard Astor Piazzolla on the radio for the first time, aged 11.
Do you have any role models? Is there anyone who has been especially motivating or inspiring to you?
My role model is Mogens Ellegaard, Danish accordionist.
Do you have any advice for «new listeners» who are curious about classical music and do not go to concerts very often?
To new listeners I would say that classical music is a direct contact with your inner emotional life and can contribute to a healthier mind.
Any upcoming concerts you would recommend?
Upcoming concerts, I would say Poing's 25th anniversary and the new album release from Seimb/Haltli
Minister for classical music in Norway for a day - what would you do?
As minister for a day I would make concerts and cultural experiences available by law on a blue prescription. I would also draw up a contingency plan for culture.
Name one thing not many people know about you?
Perhaps not many people know that I boxed for 8 years (with a helmet)
Concert attire: Dressed up or casual? And applauding between movements: for or against?
The audience should not feel they are wrongly dressed, and preferably not applaud between movements, unless one was overcome with enthusiasm and could not hold back.
Finally - whom would you like to challenge to take over the baton?
Ruth Wilhelmine Meyer.
Photo: Tore Sætre