Ole Bull, born Ole Bornemann Bull on February 5, 1810, in Bergen, Norway, stands out as one of the most fascinating figures in 19th-century music. A virtuoso violinist, he was not only celebrated for his exceptional talents but also for his contributions to Norwegian national romanticism. Bull's charisma and innovative approaches to performance captivated audiences across Europe and America, earning him a reputation as the "Paganini of the North."

During his lifetime, Ole Bull fervently promoted Norwegian music and culture, often incorporating folk tunes and his own compositions into his performances. His deep love for his homeland led him to the ideation of a Norwegian Theatre, and he even founded a short-lived colony in Pennsylvania, which he named New Norway. Despite the breadth of his ambitions, it was the timeless beauty of his violin playing that secured his legacy—an artistry continually honored by contemporary violinists who perform and record his works, as seen in albums like "Isle of Light" and "Arve Tellefsen Plays Ole Bull." Through these recordings, including the exploration of lesser-known pieces in "The Unknown Ole Bull," his spirit and pioneering influence remain a beacon in the world of classical music. Ole Bull passed away on August 17, 1880, but his vibrant spirit and the musical heritage he championed is a persistent inspiration within the arts.

Genres

Norwegian Classical

Latest Release

Bull: Sæterjentens Søndag

Ole Bull•

Eldbjørg Hemsing•

Håvard Gimse

Single - Released January 26, 2024