Vegar Vårdal - Istem (2026) [Hi-Res]

The composition Istem, commissioned by Vegar Vårdal, is written for a unique Hardanger fiddle quintet featuring solo elements. The ensemble utilizes custom-built instruments by Ottar Kaasa, including Hardanger violas and cellos. Comprised of five experienced musicians from both folk and classical backgrounds, the group underwent an extensive process of acoustic exploration and tuning to achieve a balanced sound. The result is a diverse sonic landscape that transitions between orchestral richness, flowing folk-inspired melodies, and porous, minimalist textures.

Cello [Hardingcello] – Johannes Martens
Commissioned By – Telemarkfestivalen
Graphics [Grafisk] – KulFilm, Mette Vårdal
Hardingfele [Hardingfeler] – Ottar Kåsa (tracks: 1 to 5, 8 to 10), Sivert Holmen* (tracks: 1 to 3, 5, 6, 8 to 11), Vegar Vårdal
Liner Notes [Norwegian, English] – Anne Hytta, Vegar Vårdal
Mastered By [Master] – Fridtjof Lindemann*
Mixed By [Miks] – Tor Magne Hallibakken
Producer [Produsent] – Anne Hytta
Viola [Hardingbratsj] – Nora Taksdal (tracks: 1 to 3, 5, 6, 8 to 11)

Tracklist:
1-1 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Ottar Kåsa;Sivert Holmen;Nora Taksdal;Johannes Martens - Flatere vals blir det ikke! [4:11]
1-2 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Ottar Kåsa;Sivert Holmen;Nora Taksdal;Johannes Martens - No. 4 Halling (Schart 1865) [4:30]
1-3 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Ottar Kåsa;Sivert Holmen;Nora Taksdal;Johannes Martens - Rundt med vri [3:05]
1-4 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Johannes Martens;Ottar Kåsa - Dyp virvel [2:01]
1-5 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Ottar Kåsa;Sivert Holmen;Nora Taksdal;Johannes Martens - I eikeskogen [2:49]
1-6 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Johannes Martens;Sivert Holmen;Nora Taksdal - Domedag med glitter [7:44]
1-7 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Johannes Martens - Liten virvel [1:46]
1-8 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Sivert Holmen;Ottar Kåsa;Nora Taksdal;Johannes Martens - Blikkfang [4:48]
1-9 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Ottar Kåsa;Sivert Holmen;Nora Taksdal;Johannes Martens - No. 5 Springdans (Schart 1865) [4:41]
1-10 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Ottar Kåsa;Sivert Holmen;Nora Taksdal;Johannes Martens - Leik over No. 4 [1:51]
1-11 Vegar Vårdal;Vegar Vårdal;Nora Taksdal;Sivert Holmen;Johannes Martens - Visetone fra en fjelltopp [4:57]