Ung Filharmoni
Pekka Kuusisto
Tine Thing Helseth Johan Svendsen
Sergei Prokofiev
Nico Muhly

The American composer Nico Muhly (b. 1981) wrote the trumpet concerto Doom Painting for tonight’s soloist, Tine Thing Helseth, on commission from the Oslo Philharmonic and three other orchestras. Muhly drew inspiration from the trumpet’s varied significance in the Bible, where it plays a key role in everything from sacred ceremonies to jubilant celebrations.

Johan Svendsen (1840–1911) grew up in Vika, and the square in front of Oslo Concert Hall now bears his name. After spending many years abroad, he returned to his hometown in 1872. During his five years in Christiania in the 1870s, he became a central figure in the city’s musical life, composing some of his finest works, including the concert overture Romeo and Juliet in 1876.

Sergei Prokofiev (1891–1953) composed his ballet Romeo and Juliet in 1935. In working with Shakespeare’s drama, Prokofiev’s versatile creativity flourished—the music shifts between brutality, humor, and idyllic moments, capturing both passionate love and profound tragedy. Romeo & Juliet became one of his greatest successes, particularly in its orchestral suite versions.