The Italo-Norwegian duo Vaaje-Gatti performs traditional music for the hardingfele, a national symbol of Norway, seeking its elegance and authenticity in a modern light.
Norwegian musical tradition gained international fame thanks to the hardingfele, a unique instrument resembling a cross between the violin and the viola d’amore, often richly adorned with inlays and floral decorations symbolizing its central role in the national culture. Tradition dictates that the hardingfele be played as a solo instrument, often accompanying folk dances, and the repertoire – part of which has been nominated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage – varies greatly depending on the region.
The Duo Vaaje-Gatti, consisting of a Norwegian member (Maria Vaaje on the hardingfele) and an Italian member (Joan Gatti on the violin), was formed in Rauland at the University of South-Eastern Norway with the desire to promote this little-known repertoire in Italy, but now widely spread across the musical landscape of Northern Europe and beyond. Maria’s mastery of traditional melodies blends with Joan’s eclecticism in violin playing, creating a multicultural dialogue forged through years of stage experience.

Artists:
Maria Vaaje: hardingfele
Joan Gatti: violin