Cikada Ensemble

Since its 1989 formation in Oslo, Cikada has developed a refined and highly acclaimed profile on the international contemporary music scene.

From the very beginning, Cikada has consisted of flute, clarinet, piano, percussion, string quintet and conductor Christian Eggen. All ten are equal, permanent members, and the ensemble has become synonymous with the Oslo Sound of fresh, vibrant, warm and virtuosic interpretations of consciously selected, contemporary repertoire.

In concerts at major international festivals and on numerous albums, Cikada’s distinct ensemble profile manifests itself in strong programming. Integral to this work is a wish to develop long-term collaborations with composers and to build composer portraits with commissioned works over time.

The nine musicians also play in various formations within the group: the Cikada String Quartet, the Cikada Trio (flute, clarinet, piano), the Cikada Piano Trio and the Cikada Duo (piano and percussion) work as independent Cikada units, enhancing the ensemble’s international identity. Cikada was awarded the prestigious Nordic Council Music Prize in 2005.

photo: from booklet 2L124