About us
Join us as we embark on this extraordinary musical journey, where every performance is a celebration of the human spirit and the transformative power of music. Camerata Nordica’s concert season awaits, promising unforgettable moments of musical enchantment that will leave you inspired and in awe.
Our story
Camerata Nordica, established in 1974 as the regional orchestra of Kalmar in southeast Sweden, has since become the country’s leading chamber orchestra. Under the auspices of Kalmar Läns Musikstiftelse, the ensemble has garnered a reputation for its distinctive performance style, captivating audiences with standing performances, a conductor-less approach, and occasional reliance on memory rather than scores. This dynamic energy and shared musical purpose form the core of the ensemble’s identity, complemented by its innovative and creative programming.
Comprised of both permanent and international members, Camerata Nordica draws exceptional talent from chamber music ensembles and orchestras across Sweden and Europe. This amalgamation of skilled musicians allows the ensemble to deliver a distinct and intimate chamber music experience to its audiences, leaving a lasting impact.
Throughout its journey, Camerata Nordica has collaborated with esteemed leaders such as Norbert Brainin, Levon Chilingirian, Philippe Graffin, Giovanni Guzzo, Franz Helmerson, Barnabas Kelemen, Ernst Kovacic, Pekka Kuusisto, Josef Suk, Terje Tønnesen, Ulf Wallin, Antje Weithaas, and many other renowned artists. These collaborations have enriched the ensemble’s artistic endeavors and contributed to its musical growth.
In addition to frequent tours across Sweden, Camerata Nordica has graced numerous stages throughout Europe and beyond, earning high praise from audiences and critics alike during performances in South America, the United States, Canada, and other international locations. The orchestra’s debut at the BBC Proms in 2013 further solidified its acclaim and reputation.
Locally, the ensemble nurtures a strong bond with its audience, acting as a pillar within the vibrant musical community. Camerata Nordica places great importance on engaging and inspiring young audiences, actively developing projects tailored to their needs. Furthermore, the orchestra frequently commissions new works from Swedish contemporary composers, fostering the flourishing of modern musical expression.
Camerata Nordica has enjoyed a fruitful collaboration with the esteemed label BIS, resulting in numerous acclaimed recordings. Notably, three of these recordings have received nominations for the prestigious Grammis Awards. The orchestra’s performances are regularly featured on radio and television, extending its reach and impact even further.
As Camerata Nordica continues its artistic journey, it remains committed to pushing boundaries, inspiring audiences, and shaping the cultural landscape through music-making and an unwavering dedication to the highest artistic standards.
Chamber Ensemble
Camerata Nordica Chamber Ensemble, comprised of members from Camerata Nordica, showcases a diverse range of formations, ranging from duos to octets.
With a repertoire that highlights hidden gems of chamber music, often overlooked in regular series, the ensemble’s flexible instrumentation allows for unique performances.
In addition to their more traditional concerts, the ensemble also pioneers artistic projects that push the boundaries of the concert experience. Through innovative collaborations that incorporate elements such as light shows and video, they aim to create immersive performances that engage and inspire audiences in new and exciting ways.
While they regularly perform across Sweden, Camerata Nordica Chamber Ensemble also frequently embarks often on international tours.
Press reviews
CAMERATA NORDICA, CROSSING BORDERS – “Swift tempos, minimal vibrato and – most noticeably – excellent ensemble went into a warm, sweeping and well-appointed reading. “
The Washington Post, USA
“The Camerata was absolutely phenomenal – what a pleasure to hear them. They are intense, extraordinary musicians. We would love to get their great sound onto the air as soon as possible.”
WGBH RADIO, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
CATHY FULLER, classical producer
“ The listener can experience a superb quality with this conductor-less ensemble (…) the divertimento with its astonishing youthful charm was played with lightness, well balanced and stylistically convincing.”
GÖTEBORGS-POSTEN, Gothenburg
Discography
2017 – BIS
MOZART
2017 – BIS
Tales of Sound and Fury
2014 – BIS
Visions fugitives
2014 – BIS
Britten
2013 – BIS
Beethoven – The late string quartets
2006 – CPO