ENSEMBLE ERNST - ...But... (2015)

This CD by Ensemble Ernst, its first release on the LAWO Classics label, was inspired by the musicians’ wish to record music that has meant a lot to them. The idea originated when they premiered Arne Nordheim’s “Tenebrae” in a transcribed version for viola and sinfonietta during the Ultima Oslo Contemporary Music Festival 2012, with soloist Ellen Nisbeth. They decided then to record the work, and it seemed natural to include works by Ørjan Matre and Salvatore Sciarrino, composers with whom they have been closely associated. What these composers have in common is that they blend innovation, exploration of new tonal worlds, and melodiousness, while communicating directly with both musicians and audience.

Besides Nisbeth, the recording features trombonist Sverre Riise as soloist. The title “…But…” is taken from Matre’s piece “…but I must have said this before…”.

Ensemble Ernst was established in 1996, an offspring of the contemporary music ensemble at the Norwegian Academy of Music. The ensemble has specialized in recent contemporary music, and it is well-known for its frequent commissions of new, Norwegian music, and for its playful concertizing. Thomas Rimul has been conductor from the start, and most of the musicians have been members from the very beginning. Although the musicians now have leading positions in orchestras and are much sought after in the freelance market, they continue to prioritize Ensemble Ernst.