Bjarne Amdahl

Full biography Bjarne Amdahl

Bjarne Amdahl was a Norwegian composer, born on October 9th, 1943 in the small town of Tynset, in the eastern part of Norway. He is known for his work in modern classical music, particularly in the field of electroacoustic music.

Amdahl studied music at the Norwegian State Academy of Music in Oslo, where he received his diploma in composition in 1970. He also completed postgraduate studies in electronic and computer music at IRCAM in Paris in the mid-1970s.

Throughout his career, Amdahl developed a unique style that combined classical music technique with modern electronic sounds. His music was often described as haunting, with an emphasis on textures and timbres.

Amdahl composed works for a wide range of ensembles and soloists, including orchestras, chamber groups, and solo instruments. He also collaborated with artists from other disciplines, such as poets, authors, and visual artists.

Some of Amdahl's notable compositions include "Eivind Groven revisited" for string orchestra, "Kosmos" for piano and live electronics, and "Letter from an angel" for soprano and electronic sounds. He received numerous grants and awards for his work in music, including the Conrad Ferdinand Meyer Prize in 1998.

Amdahl passed away on June 1st, 2010 at the age of 66, leaving behind an extensive catalogue of compositions and a legacy of innovation in modern classical music.