Biography

Ola Sønstebø, a 19-year-old percussionist from Lier, has already achieved impressive achievements in his musical career. His passion for percussion began when he was eight years old, when he started playing at Lier Kulturskole under the guidance of teacher Ellen Kathrine Trelease Eriksen. It was here that he performed in his first concerts and participated in various events, which gave him valuable experience and self-confidence.

Already at the age of 13, Ola became part of the Talent Development Program (TUP) at the Norwegian Academy of Music, where he had Kjell Tore Innervik as a teacher. This opportunity gave him a unique chance to further develop his talent and learn from experienced professionals. Later he also had the pleasure of becoming part of the young musician place at TUP, where he received lessons from several skilled teachers, including Bjørn Løken and Tom Vissgren. This time helped to shape Ola as a musician and helped to expand his musical horizons.

In the 10th grade, Ola started studying music at Majorstuen, where he became part of the vibrant music environment. He then continued his musical education in the music department at Edvard Munch upper secondary school, where he completed 13 years of schooling. After the summer, he has exciting plans to start at the Norwegian Academy of Music to study performing percussion. This opportunity will give him a solid platform to continue his development and explore new aspects of percussion.

Ola has also actively participated in a number of competitions and achieved significant awards, both nationally and internationally. For him, competitions are not only an opportunity to show off his work, but also a source of further growth and development. He appreciates the challenges that competitions offer and is constantly looking for new ways to improve as a musician. At the same time as he participates in competitions, Ola has a deep love for playing concerts. He finds joy in creating a unique experience for the audience and strives to convey his passion through the music he plays.

With his dedication, talent and desire to constantly explore new musical horizons, Ola Sønstebø is a promising percussionist with a bright future ahead of him. He is eager to continue his musical journey and help enrich the music world with his unique voice and skills as a percussionist.

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Reviews:

"Ola Sønstebø is a national "rising star" in melodic percussion." - Lier School of Culture

"... Thank you, this was the highlight of the evening." - Jon Klavenæs

"... Very solid performance! Playful and light, great excess, and excellent interaction with the pianist. Shows great musical maturity. Good communication skills..." " Finely played. Loose and free technique. Nice dynamics..." - Teodor Berg

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