The exceptional composer-performer from Norway, Benedicte Maurseth, will play the quintessentially Norwegian hardanger fiddle alongside three of her remarkable collaborators, creating an unforgettable musical journey to an icy, northern world.
Maurseth will be joined by Morten Qvenild, Mats Eilertsen and Håkon Stene.
“★★★★ – Her interspersed contributions on Hardanger fiddle are as entrancing as ever, whether channelling traditional music or improvising. The imaginative integration of all elements in a sort of propulsive acoustic ecosystem is uniquely and irresistibly stunning.” – SONGLINES
This performance is made possible with the support of the Sydney Opera House Trust. Bundanon acknowledges the generosity of the Boyd Music Circle, a dedicated group of supporters increasing opportunities for Australian and international artists to connect with our regional audiences, promoting a vibrant future of chamber music for all.
Benedicte Maurseth
Hardinger fiddle is the soul of traditional Norwegian music. Originally a seventeenth-century instrument, similarly sized to the violin, it has eight strings, four of which are ‘sympathetic’, creating extra resonance and possibilities for chordal playing. Benedicte Maurseth is the hardanger fiddle’s great contemporary player. She’s steeped in folkloric traditions, and a distinguished composer, recently commissioned by Kronos Quartet among others.
This performance celebrates her new album, Mirra, created in amazing musical company, with Morten Qvenild, Mats Eilertsen and Håkon Stene. Inspired by the country of her childhood — way up north in the Norwegian mountains and higher still onto the plateaus — sounds and survival patterns of reindeer have been central to Benedicte’s haunting new music, wrapped around age-old traditional tunes.
The Boyd Music Series
The Boyd Music Series is a collection of the world’s leading chamber musicians and renowned soloists from western and eastern classical traditions, including Australian debut performances. Presented in collaboration with Sydney Opera House and performed at Bundanon’s award-winning Boyd Education Centre from May until November 2025, the concerts will showcase a rich landscape of sounds.
An important new partnership between Bundanon and Sydney Opera House, the Boyd Music Series is curated by Utzon Music Series Curator Genevieve Lacey. It represents a unique opportunity to experience musical excellence by renowned Australian and international artists surrounded by Bundanon’s natural landscape, with sweeping views of the Bangli/Shoalhaven River.
