Alena Baeva
Violin
When The New York Times got weak in the knees, we knew it was time to bring Alena to Risør. Her playing is described as one of the most captivating from the young generation.
About the Artist
Some careers demand your attention. Alena Baeva's is one of them. The Kyrgyzstan-born violinist has gone from one of many competition-winning talents to one of the violin world's most sought-after soloists in just a few years.
Her mentor was none other than Mstislav Rostropovich, and she studied with Seiji Ozawa. At just 16, she won the Grand Prix at the legendary Wieniawski Competition. Three years later, she took the Paganini Competition. In other words, something sets her apart – but what?
"You're almost afraid the violin will catch fire," wrote Der Opernfreund, while The New York Times described her playing as "assertive beauty with vibrato so quick it almost disappeared." Tine was never in doubt about who she wanted, in other words.
With a CV like hers, it's only right that she comes to us in Risør!
Concerts
Opening Concert
Tine Thing Helseth invites you to a spectacular opening with Haydn and Schumann, among others. Welcome to Risør Chamber Music Festival 2026!
Midsummer Celebration at Torvet
We're inviting the whole city to the main square on the most beautiful summer day of the year. Classical delights and good vibes, plus food and drinks. Welcome!
Gold is forever
Quality music endures everything. You can tear and wear, twist and turn, take full liberties with the original - and the quality still shines through.
Mahler & Schumann
Two married couples, but quite different marriages. Yet posterity should be grateful that these four people found time to write music amidst everything else.
Seasons in the Main Square
A clever pairing of Vivaldi and Piazzolla. Because when it's summer for one, it's winter for the other. Right beneath the Risør sun.
Heart Strings
This year's closing concert is inspired by the emotional entanglements between several composers. We also invite the Festival Choir to Risør Church.
