DISCOVER BENDIK HOFSETH

The National Jazz Orchestra welcomes Norwegian composer, saxophonist, singer, and conductor Bendik Hofseth for a unique performance of his works arranged for jazz orchestra with strings.

In 1987, aged 25, Hofseth left his native Norway for New York to replace Michael Brecker in the world-renowned Steps Ahead group. After several international tours with the band, he went on to collaborate with John McLaughlin, D’Gary, Rickie Lee Jones, Ray Phiri, Hariprasad Chaurasia, and participated in hundreds of recordings around the world. Borrowing a wide array of colours and shapes from different genres – which he’s renewed with various ensembles – Hofseth has written many works for film, television, and live concerts.

Over the years, he’s released nine albums, including the remarkable 1995 live recording in Oslo: Metamorfoser. His extensive repertoire comprises songs reminiscent of Sting’s best jazz period, and instrumental pieces that explore the northern spaces that are so dear to his countryman Terje Rypdal. A Norwegian musical icon, Hofseth teaches at Agder University, in Kristiansand and Grimstad.