THE Irish Chamber Orchestra (ICO) has announced the appointment of Henning Kraggerud, one of Norway’s most distinguished musicians, as its new Artistic Partner. Kraggerud will begin his three-year tenure in August 2025, following in the footsteps of a remarkable lineage of artistic collaborators, including Thomas Zehetmair and, most recently, Jörg Widmann.
Born in Oslo, Kraggerud is an acclaimed violinist, violist, and composer, widely regarded as one of Norway’s finest musical exports. He regularly appears on the world’s leading stages, performing with top orchestras and conductors. Known for his deeply communicative style and an innate sense of musical discovery, Kraggerud has composed over 200 works and is a passionate educator, offering insightful perspectives into his multifaceted approach to music-making.
Gerry Keenan, CEO of the ICO, expressed his enthusiasm about the appointment:
“I am thrilled that Henning Kraggerud will join the ICO family as Artistic Partner. Henning has consistently shown an extraordinary ability to connect with audiences across Ireland, inspiring and delighting with each performance. Every concert with Henning is an unforgettable experience, and we look forward to many more in the years ahead.”
Reflecting on the partnership, Kraggerud said:
“From the very beginning, my collaboration with the ICO has been immensely rewarding, thanks to the warmth and sincerity of the players and the team. The orchestra is wonderfully open to exploring new ways of rehearsing and performing – incorporating movement, dance, choreography, and innovative programming, as well as fostering interactive experiences with audiences.
“Our work together has left a deep impression on me, and I’m excited to further develop our relationship, strengthen community ties, and celebrate Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
“Touring with the ICO has made me feel far more than just 1/32nd Irish – though my great-great-great-grandmother was Irish!”
Kraggerud made his debut with the ICO in March 2022 in a programme spotlighting music from his native Norway, leaving a lasting impression on both musicians and audiences.
A March 2024 performance of his own orchestral arrangement of Bach’s Goldberg Variations further cemented the artistic relationship. This week, he returns to perform Vivaldi’s iconic Four Seasons, alongside three original works of his own.
On his creative philosophy, Kraggerud explains:
“I simply try to create a setting in which spontaneous things can happen. That means embracing a little less control and allowing more freedom for players to express themselves. Many of my most cherished moments in life – not just in music – come when you dare to be yourself and inspire others.”
In addition to his new role with the ICO, Kraggerud is Artistic Director of the Arctic Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra in Tromsø. His extensive discography has earned international acclaim, with highlights including Between the Seasons, which pairs Vivaldi’s Four Seasons with his own compositions (Simax), a well-received Beethoven recording (Simax), and a reimagined interpretation of Grieg’s concertos, based on the composer’s violin sonatas (Naxos). His original compositions are also featured in the critically praised Equinox (Simax).
Kraggerud is Professor of Violin and Viola at the Norwegian Academy of Music, where he also teaches improvisation, and holds the position of Chair of Violin and Fellow at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.
