Kjell Mork Karlsen

Full biography Kjell Mork Karlsen

Kjell Mork Karlsen was a Norwegian composer born on September 2, 1947, in Kristiansand, Norway. He was one of Norway's most significant composers in the contemporary music scene. In his early years, he showed an interest in music and began playing the piano when he was just five years old.

After completing his education, Karlsen began composing in a contemporary style, heavily influenced by jazz music. He gained recognition for his work in the late 1960s, and his compositions were not only played in Norway but also premiered in other countries.

Karlsen's music style evolved over time, and he began incorporating traditional Norwegian folk music into his work. His music often evokes images of the Norwegian landscape and its people.

Some of Karlsen's most notable compositions include "Concerto for Classical Guitar and Orchestra" and "Ginnungagap." The latter was commissioned by the Norwegian State Chamber Orchestra and premiered in 1999 in Oslo, Norway.

Karlsen's achievements have not gone unnoticed, and he has received several awards for his music, including the Lindeman Prize and the Music Critics' Prize. He was also a member of the Norwegian Academy of Music.

Kjell Mork Karlsen passed away on August 8, 2019, at the age of 71. He left a legacy as one of Norway's most significant composers of contemporary music, and his music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today.