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 principal cellist of Bergen Filharmoniske orkester and section leader in Ensemble Allegria. She shares her thoughts on classical music and recommends upcoming concerts for both new and experienced concert-goers!
Name, instrument and profession
Frida Fredrikke Waaler Wærvågen, cello. Principal cellist of Bergen Filharmoniske orkester, section leader in Ensemble Allegria and cellist in ATEM strykekvartett.
What are you up to at the moment?
Right now we are having a reunion with my wonderful string quartet, ATEM strykekvartett. We are preparing two concerts in Tønsberg and in Oslo on Wednesday 4 and 5 October.
Most overrated composer or piece?
Oh, I find that scary to answer. But I can say that I think we should get better at playing a more varied programme, instead of repeating the same classics all the time.
And at the opposite end… which music should everyone really experience?
My list is actually quite long, but as a cellist I must of course mention the Elgar and Dvorak cello concertos. I'll just say this: What would life be without those works?
Your most recent great concert experience - what made it so special?
Sangskatten 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 heartily, myself included even though I was playing! It was incredibly beautiful and special, and of course a slightly different repertoire, with well-known Norwegian children's songs, but it was very moving!
Do you have any advice for «new listeners» who are curious about classical music and do not go to concerts so often?
I would so love for the threshold to be even lower for going to hear just anything. You are 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 those same people dare to come back for something that is not quite so widely known! Music exists to create feelings, all feelings, and not least to be in the moment. In today's society we are supposed to get through everything and more than we can manage. Personally I am extremely glad to work with music. I have no chance of thinking about the laundry or things I should have done while I am playing. It demands my full attention, and it does for the listeners too. So in a way you could say that music is a refuge. For me it is, at least, both as a listener and as a musician.
Any upcoming concerts you would like to recommend?
I have already mentioned my concert with Atem this week, otherwise I urge everyone in Eastern Norway to make a trip (or two) to Bergen, to experience Grieghallen and my fantastic orchestra, BFO! You will not regret it!
Finally - whom would you like to challenge to take over the baton?
Marie Lille Haugen, who has just started a new job in Marinemusikken in Horten,my dear hometown.
