The University of Georgia announced on March 20 that the Tord Gustavsen Trio, an internationally recognized jazz group from Norway, will perform at Ramsey Concert Hall on March 27 at 7:30 p.m. The trio features pianist and composer Tord Gustavsen, double bassist Steinar Raknes, and drummer Jarle Vespestad.
The concert is supported by Charlie and Teresa Friedlander and marks the conclusion of the UGA Performing Arts Center’s 30th anniversary season Nordic Dreams series. This series has featured artists from Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden.
Gustavsen’s music is influenced by his Norwegian background, drawing on Lutheran church hymns, Scandinavian folk traditions, and classical music. While rooted in American jazz traditions—especially improvisation—his style is distinctively personal. Critics have described his work as existing between sacred and secular traditions; it is not church music but carries a spiritual quality, nor is it classical chamber music but is known for its sensitivity and subtlety. Gustavsen often refers to his compositions as “wordless hymns,” balancing melody with silence and space while maintaining an understated groove.
Born in Oslo, Gustavsen began playing piano at age four and was composing before he could read music. He studied sociology, psychology, and religious history at the University of Oslo before attending the Conservatory of Music in Trondheim. His debut trio album “Changing Places” was released in 2003 on ECM Records. His tenth ECM album “Seeing,” released in 2024, continues to showcase the trio’s interplay along with new electronic elements.
Tickets can be purchased online at pac.uga.edu or by calling or visiting the Performing Arts Center box office during business hours. Discounts are available for creating a series of performances or using promo codes for single tickets. Student tickets are also offered at a reduced price.
Information about accessibility and venue amenities can be found on the PAC website. Parking for this event is free.
