Record number of applicants to Papillon

This year, we also opened the programme to vocal applicants, in addition to strings, piano, wind, percussion and harp, which is clearly reflected in the application numbers. Among this year’s applicants are 25 singers, 9 violinists, 2 violists, 7 cellists, 1 double bassist, 5 pianists, 1 harpist, 3 flautists, 3 clarinettists, 1 horn player, 1 trumpeter and 1 trombonist.

Strong interest and important development

– These are very encouraging figures and demonstrate the strong need for a programme like this. Interest among young musicians across disciplines is high. The fact that we have now also opened the programme to singers and are receiving such a strong response is something we see as a real strength for the programme’s continued development, says Director Mona Kleven.

A unique talent programme

Papillon is a unique opportunity for the most advanced young classical musicians and is carried out in close collaboration with the festival’s and academy’s artistic directors Guro Kleven Hagen, Ann-Helen Moen and Alf Richard Kraggerud. Participants are given the opportunity to perform on a variety of concert stages, collaborate with outstanding artists during the festival, take part in masterclasses, and receive individual guidance from experienced pedagogues and musicians. The programme also includes lectures and discussions with professional musicians, agents, concert presenters and other relevant industry representatives.

As part of the Papillon programme, participants also join Talent Norway’s network, an important arena for artists in the early stages of their careers. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Talent Norway for their support of the programme.

Participants this year

In the 2024–2026 cohort, Frida Rogn (cello) from Valdres is participating in the programme. Andreas Martinsen (violin), Owen Sørbye Davis (cello), Nikita Khnykin (piano) and Synske Pas (horn) are also part of the programme. They will perform at several concerts during this year’s festival, 24–28 June, including Tapas! – A Fiesta at Nythun, Dedication, To Valdres, Bach’s Heritage, the closing concert Eight Seasons, Postlude: Octets, Romanticism at Blåflat Gard, Ballade at Kongsgaarden and Opera at Vesleøya.