Leif Ove Andsnes
(c) Simon Fowler
In 2016 Norwegian pianist Leif Ove Andsnes will launch a new chamber music festival in his homeland. Called Rosendal Chamber Music Festival it will take place in the picturesque setting of Western Norway’s historic Rosendal estate, where Andsnes – a Rosendal regular for more than 20 years – will serve as Founding Director. Guest artists of the first edition (August 11–14, 2016) include Sol Gabetta, Bertrand Chamayou, Vilde Frang Matthias Goerne, Sharon Kam and the Brentano String Quartet.
Set in a green valley beneath dramatic mountains, the village of Rosendal may be reached by boat from Norway’s Bergen airport. The Baroniet Rosendal Manor House and Gardens dates from 1661, when Ludwig Rosenkrantz and his young wife Karen created the lavish estate that would, 17 years later, be designated Norway’s sole Barony by King Christian V of Denmark and Norway. Today the house and its beautifully kept gardens offer visitors a glimpse of Norwegian history in one of the country’s most spectacular natural settings.
August 2016 marks not only the inaugural Rosendal Chamber Music Festival, but also the opening of Rosendal’s new concert hall, which was converted from an original barn on the estate, and seats 400.
