Klaus Egge

Klaus Egge (1906–1979) is one of the Norwegian composers most performed both in Norway and abroad, and several of his works have become standard repertoire in Norway. Egge graduated as organist at the Music Conservatory in Oslo in 1929, and continued studying among other things composition with Fartein Valen. In 1937-38 he studied with Professor Walter Gmeindl at the Music Academy in Berlin. Egge is considered one of the leading symphonic composers after the war, and has written several major works, including five symphonies, three piano concertos, a violin concerto and a cello concerto. The chamber works also has a central place. They include a string quartet, a piano trio, two wind quintets, a violin sonata and a number of piano works. Egge has been awarded a number of prizes and awards, including the Arts Council Norway Honorary Award in 1972. He was also Commander of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav, and of the Icelandic Order of the Falcon. Egge was a central figure in the Norwegian and Nordic music life. In addition to his work as a composer, he was active in a number of positions, including many years as chairman of the Norwegian Society of Composers. He was a persistent advocate of the professional music scene in Norway, and has been crucial to its development.