Dive into the rich and diverse musical universe of Henning Kraggerud with "The Essential Henning Kraggerud," a meticulously curated collection of 29 tracks that showcase the Norwegian violinist, violist, conductor, and composer's extraordinary talent and versatility. Released on June 6, 2025, under the prestigious Naxos Special Projects label, this album spans a generous 2 hours and 21 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Kraggerud's chamber music repertoire.
The album features a captivating blend of classical masterpieces and lesser-known gems, including works by Tchaikovsky, Grieg, and Halvorsen, alongside Kraggerud's own compositions. From the urgent passion of Grieg's Third to the sweetness of tone in his other works, Kraggerud's performances are marked by a deep understanding of each piece's inner meaning, a testament to his extensive studies with renowned mentors like Camilla Wicks and Emanuel Hurwitz.
Henning Kraggerud's artistry shines through in every track, whether he is performing a solo piece or collaborating with the Irish Chamber Orchestra, where he will commence a three-year term as a soloist in August 2025. The album is a celebration of Kraggerud's musical journey, highlighting his ability to infuse each performance with urgency, passion, and a profound emotional depth. "The Essential Henning Kraggerud" is not just an album; it is a testament to the artist's enduring legacy and his commitment to exploring the full spectrum of musical expression.
2025 Naxos Records2025 Naxos Records
Tracks
III. Vision: Allegro moderatoKurt Atterberg, Henning Kraggerud, Dalasinfoniettan, Bjarte Engeset
No. 3 in G MajorChristian Sinding, Henning Kraggerud, Christian Ihle Hadland
Melodies of the Heart, Op. 5: No. 3, Jeg elsker dig [I Love but Thee] [arr. For violin and orchestra]Edvard Grieg, Henning Kraggerud, Razumovsky Symphony Orchestra, Bjarte Engeset
Mosaique: IV. Veslemøys sangJohan Halvorsen, Henning Kraggerud
VI. AllegroWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Henning Kraggerud, Lars Anders Tomter, Christoph Richter
No. 2, Lento [6 Old Village Songs from Lom]Carl Gustav Sparre Olsen, Henning Kraggerud, Dalasinfoniettan, Bjarte Engeset
A Visit to the Mountain Pasture: The Herdmaiden's SundayOle Bull, Henning Kraggerud, Razumovsky Symphony Orchestra, Bjarte Engeset
I. No. 1, ElegieChristian Sinding, Henning Kraggerud, Christian Ihle Hadland
No. 1 in A Major (arr. J. Johansson for orchestra) [Old Pastoral Hymn from Dalecarlia]Wilhelm Stenhammar, Henning Kraggerud, Dalasinfoniettan, Bjarte Engeset
Humoresque No. 6 in G Minor, Op. 89dJean Sibelius, Henning Kraggerud, Dalasinfoniettan, Bjarte Engeset
II. Allegretto espressivo alla RomanzaEdvard Grieg, Henning Kraggerud, Helge Kjekshus