UGA Presents welcomes the internationally acclaimed Tord Gustavsen Trio to Ramsey Concert Hall on March 27 at 7:30 p.m. Known for its deeply expressive and meditative approach to jazz, the trio brings together Norwegian pianist and composer Tord Gustavsen, double bassist Steinar Raknes and drummer Jarle Vespestad.
Supported by Charlie and Teresa Friedlander, the concert is part of the UGA Performing Arts Center’s 30th anniversary season and concludes its Nordic Dreams series, which has presented artists from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.
Gustavsen’s music draws from a range of influences rooted in his Norwegian upbringing, including Lutheran church hymns, Scandinavian folk traditions and classical music. While grounded in the traditions of American jazz — particularly the improvisational exchange among musicians — his work transforms those elements into a sound that is unmistakably his own.
Critics have often described Gustavsen’s music as occupying a space between sacred and secular traditions. Though not church music, it carries a spiritual quality; though not classical chamber music, it is known for its refined sensitivity and subtlety. Gustavsen, an ECM Records artist, frequently refers to his compositions as “wordless hymns,” pieces that balance lyrical melody, silence and space while still retaining an understated groove.
Born in Oslo, Gustavsen began playing piano at age 4 and was composing and improvising before he learned to read music. After studying sociology, psychology and the history of religions at the University of Oslo, he later attended the Conservatory of Music in Trondheim, where the program emphasized the development of individual artistic identity.
Gustavsen’s debut trio album, “Changing Places,” released in 2003 on ECM Records, introduced his signature sound to international audiences and launched a global career. He has continued to expand his musical vision through numerous projects and collaborations while returning periodically to the piano trio format. His tenth ECM album, “Seeing,” released in 2024, once again highlights the trio’s intimate interplay and Gustavsen’s evolving sonic palette, including subtle electronic elements.
Three ways to get tickets
- Purchase tickets online at pac.uga.edu.
- Call the Performing Arts Center box office at 706-542-4400, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Visit the UGA Performing Arts Center box office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Five-minute parking is available in the drop off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or picking up tickets.)
Audience members can create their own series of three or more performances for 10% off. UGA Presents single tickets start at just $30 with promo code PAC30, and UGA student tickets are $15.
Information about accessibility and venue amenities is available on the PAC website. Parking is free.
To learn more about all UGA Performing Arts Center events, visit pac.uga.edu.