In memory of Halvor Haug
It is with great sadness that we have received the news that Norwegian composer Halvor Haug, one of the Nordic region's most distinctive symphonists, has passed away on June 3, at the age of 73.
Halvor Haug was born in Trondheim in 1952, grew up in Vestre Bærum outside Oslo and developed a passion for music early on. After studying in Oslo, Helsinki and London – with Erik Bergman, Einar Englund and Robert Simpson, among others – he established himself as one of Norway’s most significant orchestral composers.
Haug described himself as a "modern romantic." With his roots in the Nordic symphonic tradition, he created a completely unique expression, characterized by strong emotions, drama, intellect and mystery.
He had his breakthrough at the age of 24 with Symphonic Picture , later recorded by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. His five symphonies – written between 1982 and 2002 – are all different in form but united by an intensely lyrical tone that stands in sharp contrast to intense emotional outbursts.
Nature was important to Halvor Haug, something that was also reflected in his music. Insignia , which was commissioned by the Norwegian Olympic Committee for the opening of the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics, was inspired by the dramatic nature of Lofoten, in the string orchestra piece Furuenes Sang, which was written as a reaction to the deforestation near his home, you can hear the plaintive song of the pines, and in Symphony No. 3 – The Inscrutable Life, a recorded nightingale stands at the center, as a symbol of the mystery of life.
In addition to orchestral music, Haug also wrote chamber music, including two string quartets and a piano trio. His only major vocal work, the song cycle Glem aldri henne to texts by Gunnar Reiss-Andersen, was premiered at Trondheim's 1000th anniversary in 1997.
Although a neurological illness later put an end to his creative work, Halvor Haug leaves behind a rich and deeply personal musical legacy. His ability to unite Nordic tradition with his unique musical language makes him a central figure in contemporary Norwegian music – a composer whose work continues to inspire and touch.
Thank you for the music, dear Halvor!
(Photo from a visit to Halvor Haug's home in Harestua)
Listen to Halvor Haug's music: