A Norwegian jazz saxophonist and composer, known for his improvisational skills and blending of traditional folk music with modern jazz elements. His music often features a unique, melancholic tone.
Kre Kolve is a renowned Norwegian jazz musician, saxophonist, and bandleader, celebrated for his virtuosic performances and innovative collaborations. As the older brother of vibraphonist Ivar Kolve, Kre has carved a distinct niche for himself in the Norwegian jazz scene, earning recognition for his quartet, album releases, and associations with prominent bands such as Lava, Mezzoforte, and Tre Sm Kinesere.
Following a year at Trndertun Folkehgskole, Kre studied music on the Jazz program at Trondheim Musikkonsevatorium (1984-1987), where he actively participated in Trondheim Bopservice and First Set, culminating in the release of the album Going in 1992. His subsequent collaborations with Lava, Mezzoforte, and Tre Sm Kinesere have yielded numerous album releases, solidifying his position as a driving force in Norwegian jazz.
Kre's notable achievements include his work with Mambo Compaeros, a band he co-founded with Marit Htta verli in Trondheim in 1996, resulting in the album Viva Salsa in 2003. Additionally, he has made appearances on releases such as Innerst i sjelen (1994) alongside Sissel Kyrkjeb, Marit Htta verli, and Ole Edvard Antonsen, and has led his own Kre Kolve Quartet with Espen Berg, yielding two releases.
Kre's artistic approach is deeply rooted in his passion for jazz, which he perceives as a medium for self-expression and communication. He believes that music possesses the ability to transcend boundaries, facilitating connections between individuals and fostering a sense of community. Through his work, Kre strives to create an atmosphere of inclusivity, encouraging listeners to engage with the music on a deeper level.
One of Kre's most significant achievements was his participation in the Polyostinat experience at Vossajazz 2014, where he performed alongside his brother Ivar Kolve and an elite ensemble of Norwegian musicians, including Jrn ien, Ellen Andrea Wang, and Jarle Vespestad. This event marked a pivotal moment in Kre's career, solidifying his reputation as a master saxophonist and collaborator.
In 2015, Kre received a Commission Interactions for the Vossajazz and Trondheim Jazz Festival, a testament to his dedication to the Norwegian jazz scene.
Kre Kolve's contributions to Norwegian jazz have had a profound impact on the genre, inspiring a new generation of musicians and listeners alike. His commitment to collaboration and innovation has fostered a sense of community within the jazz scene, cementing his position as a trailblazer in contemporary Norwegian music.
79 Years Old
A renowned saxophonist and composer, blending jazz with elements of Nordic folk and classical music, creating a distinctive, atmospheric sound. His music often evokes a sense of calm and contemplation.
