“At first, I saw jazz as a battle, a struggle, but later it became a way to express myself and connect with the listeners and my fellow musicians,” says Bugge Wesseltoft, one of Norway’s most renowned jazz musicians, in the publication.
The son of jazz guitarist Erik Wesseltoft, B. Wesseltoft has been surrounded by music since childhood, despite having no formal musical education. The musician loves to merge the classical sound of the piano with electronics and soundscapes.
In the 20th century, he played with many Norwegian bands and renowned musicians, such as the singer Sidsel Endresen. B. Wesseltoft has earned several Norwegian Grammys (Spellemannprisen) and the Buddy Award—the highest achievement in the Norwegian jazz scene.
He arrives at Paliesius Manor with the Rymden trio, which, alongside him, features Swedish double bassist Dan Berglund and drummer Magnus Öström—two innovative figures in the European jazz scene. The music of the Rymden trio is grounded in three elements: melancholic and atmospheric songwriting, dramatic rhythms, and virtuoso jazz performed at the highest level. Influences of modern jazz, Bach, film scores, and even rock music can be clearly heard.
Rymden will perform at Paliesius Manor on October 3, presenting their new album, “Valleys and Mountains”. Before the concert, there will be a conversation with B. Wesseltoft.
More about the concert: 10.03 | Rymden: “Valleys & Mountains” (Jazz, Norway / Sweden)
Source: LRT.LT
– Jazz has been a part of your life since childhood. How has your relationship with this music changed over the years?
As I grew and developed as a person, my perspective certainly changed. At first, I saw jazz as a battle, a struggle, but later it became a way to express myself and connect with the listeners and my fellow musicians. Jazz is unique in that the audience can witness the music being created and developed in the here and now. In most other art forms, the public is presented with finished works. I truly love those “here and now” moments and the opportunity to create something beautiful.
– Although you started playing the piano early, you didn’t acquire your own until you were 22, having tried many other instruments before then. What made you stick with the piano?
I really love the feel and sound of the piano. I enjoy playing melodies and harmonies on it, while I use electronic devices to create soundscapes and effects.
– How do you create your electronic sounds?
Always myself, from scratch, because I want a distinctive sound. I never use sounds or presets created by other people.
– Nowadays, artificial intelligence is being used more and more, including in music creation. Do you see it as a useful tool, or rather a threat?
Hmm… I am open to it. Right now, I am trying to remix my own ideas using artificial intelligence to see what might come out of it.
So far, the vast majority of music created with artificial intelligence sounds like something unoriginal, something that already exists. There is no originality. Artificial intelligence steals the work of creative people and must pay them for its use!
– You have been active in the music scene since the 1980s and have won many awards. What are you most proud of?
Awards are not very significant to me… Although receiving my first Norwegian Grammy in 1996 was important for me to be able to continue my work. Five years ago, I won Norway’s highest cultural award, and in 2018 I was the head of the Montreux Jazz Academy—I am truly proud of that. But generally, what brings me the most joy is every successful concert (smiles).
– You will be performing at Paliesius Manor with the Rymden trio. How would you describe this trio and your musical partners?
I had wanted to form a piano trio for many years. I realized that Dan and Magnus were the perfect candidates—they are superb musicians who convey a Nordic atmosphere in their music. Rymden is a blend of an acoustic piano trio and electronic elements. We draw inspiration from Nordic music, progressive music, and, of course, jazz.
– Previous Rymden albums explored space and futuristic themes, but the album “Valleys and Mountains”, which you will perform at Paliesius Manor, is more pastoral, more earthly. What inspired this theme?
These are mostly Magnus’s ideas! “Rymden” is a Swedish word meaning outer or inner space. So, the first album was dedicated to outer space, while the last two are more about inner space.
– Do you know in what direction music will take you next?
I am working in various directions, and I very much hope to continue evolving as a musician. Right now, I am inspired by traditional music from all over the world, as well as contemporary music.
My next album will be a solo release, featuring electronic music and the piano.
– Would you perhaps like to leave a message for the listeners awaiting you at Paliesius Manor?
I am very much looking forward to returning to the beautiful Vilnius region!