Sverre Jordan (1889–1972) was part of Bergen's cityscape: a short, slight, scurrying figure with a flat hat and rapid spats. His compositions are clearly inspired by his fellow native of Bergen, Edvard Grieg, but also by Sibelius, Rakhmaninov and Puccini. Even so, Sverre Jordan's tonal world has an independent character and its own sound, and consequently his piano pieces and songs found resonance with many musicians in Norway and elsewhere in Europe in his time. The three performers on this CD have chosen works that illustrate essential facets of Sverre Jordan's rich production of chamber music, piano music and lyrical romantic songs.

Hilde Haraldsen Sveen - Soprano
Hilde Haraldsen Sveen was educated at the Music Conservatory of Agder College and at Berlin University of the Arts. Since her graduation in 1994, she has been engaged at a number of German opera houses. In 2001 she made her debut at the Norwegian Opera as Gilda in Rigoletto. She has sung several lead roles there, the latest being Sophie in Der Rosenkavalier. Hilde Haraldsen Sveen is a versatile and much sought-after soloist for oratorios and concerts and has given numerous recitals to critical acclaim. She appears on recordings of Norwegian music, among others, Sigurd Islandsmoen’s Requiem with the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra.

Gro Sandvik - Flute
Gro Sandvik, has served as solo flutist in the Bergen Philharmonic since 1967. Her exceptional versatility is evidence of an intense interest in communication through music at all levels. She has an active career as soloist and chamber music performer, which includes premier performances of many works written especially for her, and the Scandinavian premier of John Corigliano's Concerto for Flute. Her philosophy of flute playing is derived from her private studies with Marcel Moyse. Ms. Sandvik holds a professorship in music performance at the Grieg Academy, University of Bergen. Her articles on flute playing in wind bands are widely recognized and she is a sought-after guest lecturer and flute educator. Gro Sandvik is often engaged as adjudicator and holds positions on several committees pertaining to Norwegian musical education and performance. Together with classical guitarist Stein Erik Olsen, she has been principal guest artist at international guitar festivals. She is Visiting Professor of Flute at The University of Iowa, School of Music for the Academic year 2006/2007.