Johan Halvorsen (1864–1935) was a leading figure in Norwegian music and known for his many talents as a composer, conductor, and violinist. He worked in theaters and concert halls across Europe, and was especially admired in his home country.
One of his most famous pieces, Passacaglia, is a dramatic and exciting duet for two string instruments. Halvorsen based it on a melody by the famous Baroque composer Handel, then added his own flair, creating a piece full of energy, emotion, and technical brilliance. Originally written for violin and viola, it’s often performed today with a cello for added depth.
The work takes the audience on a musical journey through 12 variations on a single theme, showing off a wide range of sounds, moods, and surprises along the way.
Musicians: Erik Peterson, violinist, and Barbara Thiem, celloist.
