Norway’s European Championship representatives Manger Musikklag and Eikanger Bjorsvik have put domestic rivalry behind them this week as they prepare to put the finishing touches to their preparations for the forthcoming European Championships.

Heavyweights

The two heavyweights, who have won the European title three times between them, will perform at Bergen’s Grieg Hall in a joint concert with their respective youth bands in a show of joint Norwegian strength ahead of this weekend’s competition at the De Doelen Hall in Rotterdam.

The defending European champion Manger, will be directed by Peter Sebastian Szilvay, whilst the 2011 Norwegian champion, Eikanger will be led by Professor David King. The bands will perform the set work ‘Vita Aeterna Variations’ as well as their respective own choice selections.

It is also an opportunity to play the major works to an appreciative audience and for both bands to say thank you to the local councils who have supported themSpokesperson

Thanks

A spokesperson told 4BR: "It’s the first time for over 20 years that the two Norwegian representatives will perform in a joint concert ahead of the European contest. It is also an opportunity to play the major works to an appreciative audience and for both bands to say thank you to the local councils who have supported them."

Close

Eikanger and Manger are very close geographical neighbours and are situated only 20 km apart, whilst the closeness between them is further emphasised by compere, Tom Brevik, one of Norway’s most respected musicians, who is a honourable member of both bands.