Camerata Nordica
Sunday, January 24, 2027
4:00 p.m.
A Nordic winter concert experience with an
innovative Swedish string octet
Just in time for the polar winds of January, in sweep fresh and exciting young musicians from the north. Sweden’s Camerata Nordica has already distinguished itself as a dynamic and groundbreaking ensemble, and its touring string octet carries its distinctive style on the international stage. Known for performing without a conductor or chairs, and often without sheet music, this intrepid crew will move the audience through a varied program including folk songs and a contemporary work inspired by the natural beauty of their Scandinavian homeland, alongside grand works by Mozart and Glière.
Traditional Two Swedish folk songs
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Grande Sestetto Concertante, K. 364
Hanna Helgregen The Nordic Seasons
Reinhold Glière String Octet in D Major, Op. 5
$60 live in-person
About the Artists
Camerata Nordica, established in 1974 as the regional orchestra of Kalmar in southeast Sweden, has since become the country’s leading chamber orchestra. Under the auspices of Kalmar Läns Musikstiftelse, the ensemble has garnered a reputation for its distinctive performance style, captivating audiences with standing performances, a conductor-less approach, and occasional reliance on memory rather than scores. This dynamic energy and shared musical purpose form the core of the ensemble’s identity, complemented by its innovative and creative programming.
Comprised of both permanent and international members, Camerata Nordica draws exceptional talent from chamber music ensembles and orchestras across Sweden and Europe. This amalgamation of skilled musicians allows the ensemble to deliver a distinct and intimate chamber music experience to its audiences, leaving a lasting impact.
Throughout its journey, Camerata Nordica has collaborated with esteemed leaders such as Norbert Brainin, Levon Chilingirian, Philippe Graffin, Giovanni Guzzo, Franz Helmerson, Barnabas Kelemen, Ernst Kovacic, Pekka Kuusisto, Josef Suk, Terje Tønnesen, Ulf Wallin, Antje Weithaas, and many other renowned artists. These collaborations have enriched the ensemble’s artistic endeavors and contributed to its musical growth.
In addition to frequent tours across Sweden, Camerata Nordica has graced numerous stages throughout Europe and beyond, earning high praise from audiences and critics alike during performances in South America, the United States, Canada, and other international locations. The orchestra’s debut at the BBC Proms in 2013 further solidified its acclaim and reputation.
Locally, the ensemble nurtures a strong bond with its audience, acting as a pillar within the vibrant musical community. Camerata Nordica places great importance on engaging and inspiring young audiences, actively developing projects tailored to their needs. Furthermore, the orchestra frequently commissions new works from Swedish contemporary composers, fostering the flourishing of modern musical expression.
Camerata Nordica has enjoyed a fruitful collaboration with the esteemed label BIS, resulting in numerous acclaimed recordings. Notably, three of these recordings have received nominations for the prestigious Grammis Awards. The orchestra’s performances are regularly featured on radio and television, extending its reach and impact even further.
As Camerata Nordica continues its artistic journey, it remains committed to pushing boundaries, inspiring audiences, and shaping the cultural landscape through music-making and an unwavering dedication to the highest artistic standards.
The octet consists of principal players from the orchestra, performing selected pieces by heart, showcasing the ensemble’s deep musical connection and commitment to each piece.
The Camerata Nordica Octet will be making its N. American début tour in 2025-26. In addition to frequent tours across Sweden, the Camerata Nordica chamber orchestra has graced numerous stages in the United States, Canada, South America, and other international locations, earning high praise from audiences and critics alike. Their UK début at the prestigious BBC Proms in 2013 further solidified their acclaim and reputation.
The ensemble places great importance on engaging and inspiring young audiences, actively developing projects tailored to their needs.