Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
One of the world’s oldest orchestras, the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra dates back to 1765 and celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2015. Edward Gardner is the Orchestra’s Chief Conductor.
Edvard Grieg had a close relationship with the Orchestra, and served as its artistic director during the years 1880 – 82.
Under the direction of Chief Conductor Edward Gardner, the orchestra has a busy concert schedule, a substantial outreach programme and strong international presence through tours, recordings and the concert streaming service BergenPhiLive. The orchestra is owned by Musikkselskapet Harmonien, which also runs Bergen Philharmonic Chorus and Bergen Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.
CHIEF CONDUCTOR EDWARD GARDNER
Recognised as one of the most talented conductors of his generation, Edward Gardner assumed his new position as Chief Conductor of the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra in October 2015. He became the Orchestra's Principal Guest Conductor in August 2013 and has many interesting projects planned including recordings with Chandos Records and International touring. His first season included a symphonic marathon in conjunction with the Bergen Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, several new commissions and Schoenberg’s masterful Gurrelieder.
Edward was for eight years Music Director of English National Opera and under his direction the ENO has presented a series of stellar productions, most recently Meistersinger and Otello. He will return in spring 2016 to conduct a new production of Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde. In recognition of his talent he was awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society Award in 2008 for Best Conductor and in 2009, the Olivier award for Outstanding Achievement in Opera.
