The Norwegian Radio Orchestra

Affiliated with the Norwegian Broadcasting Organization, the Norwegian Radio Orchestra is based in Oslo. Formed in 1946, the ensemble began as a chamber orchestra of 24 musicians, and it was led by Øivind Bergh, who conducted it for three decades. The orchestra specialized in light music until Sverre Bruland expanded its programming to include contemporary Norwegian music, which he championed from 1976 to 1988. Since 2013, the orchestra has increased its membership to 59 musicians. Under the direction of Miguel Harth-Bedoya the orchestra provided instrumental support for the Eurovision Song Contest and the Nobel Peace Prize Concert. Current conductor of the orchestra is Petr Popelka. Artist photos: Julia Marie Naglestad & Anna-Julia Granberg / BLUNDERBUSS