Release date: 10 November 2023

Eyolf Dale Piano

Telemark Chamber Orchestra:

Per Kristian Skalstad Violin

Amanda Håøy Horn Violin

Patrysja Blaszak-Bieńkuńska Violin

Rønnaug Flatin Violin

Anders Rensvik Viola

Johannes Skyberg Viola

Inga Byrkjeland Cello

Kari Sandnes Cello

Eskild Abelseth Bass

Eyolf Dale, the prodigious Norwegian pianist and composer, stands as a luminary in the world of jazz, leaving an indelible mark with his series of remarkable recordings alongside his octet and piano trio. Renowned for his unparalleled artistry, he has garnered international acclaim, firmly establishing himself as one of the most important Scandinavian jazz pianists of his generation. With Echoes in Oslo – Piano Concerto, he delves not only into the heart and soul of Eyolf Dale’s jazz universe but also unravels the mesmerising journey of how he ingeniously blends classical influences, culminating in the creation of his majestic first piano concerto with the Telemark Chamber Orchestra which holds a strong musical position in Norway

The whole piece is based on a memo recording Dale did on his phone late summer of 2019. He had the idea to compose a piece of significant length, and wanted to use a different approach than he had done in the past. The though of a concerto with an orchestra came to his mind, and he sat down and visualised the piece through 45 minutes of piano improvisation. This raw material were subject to deep analysis and transcription, things changed along the way, but the content, form and emotional landscape remained.
As he says, “during the process, the material felt somewhat self biographical. The concerto could be listened to with the image of a young man’s life. First, the immediate thought – the first impression – The Impromptu. Then, the formative younger years – the Youth. The impressions from travelling the world as a touring jazz musician – The Travels. A short pause, in fear of losing it all – The Epilogue. And last, but not least, the resurrect Rebirth.”

The “Three moments in Oslo” is a musical impression from three anonymous places in the capital of Norway, a city where the composer has been living since the age of 20.

this project showcases some of the most imaginative, playful, and majestic writing, deftly blending the boundless freedom and flowing essence of improvisation with the delicate nuances of a chamber string orchestra. As the project unfurls its sonic tapestry, we are privileged to journey alongside Eyolf Dale through the captivating creative process, bearing witness to the enchanting alchemy that transpires when classical motifs intertwine with jazz harmonies and spontaneous improvisation. With an uncanny ability to synthesise these two diverse genres, Dale orchestrates a piano concerto of unparalleled grandeur, a symphonic celebration that epitomises the metamorphic evolution of his musical prowess.

The creation of Dale’s first piano concerto became an all-encompassing endeavour that took him on a transformative voyage of self-discovery. The delicate balance of structure and spontaneity weaves a rich tapestry, where classical elegance and jazz ingenuity entwine harmoniously. The concerto emerges as a testament to Dale’s mastery, as he skilfully orchestrates each movement, guiding the audience through a myriad of emotions with every note.

The concerto emerges in its full splendour, accompanied by the resplendent Telemark Chamber Orchestra at the renowned Oslo Concert Hall. The amalgamation of piano and orchestra creates an enchanting synergy, with Dale serving as both the soloist and the composer, commanding the stage with virtuosity and profound emotion.

Through the monumental movements of the concerto, the audience experiences an immersive journey through the pianist’s life. From the youthful exuberance of “The Impromptu” to the contemplative introspection of “The Youth,” and from the exhilarating adventures of “The Travels” to the poignant pause of “The Epilogue,” the concerto is a mesmerising reflection of the human experience, illuminated by Dale’s incomparable artistry.

In a triumphant finale, “The Rebirth” emerges, a resounding testament to Dale’s musical metamorphosis, embodying the essence of his vision. The resplendent piano melodies soar alongside the orchestra, and as the final notes fade into the air, a sense of awe and wonder pervades the concert hall.

With his first piano concerto, he has woven a spellbinding symphony of classical and jazz elements, marking a defining moment in his career and solidifying his place as one of the most innovative and influential Scandinavian jazz pianists of his generation. The legacy of this jazz odyssey is an enduring testament to the boundless creativity and artistic brilliance of Eyolf Dale.