This year, we celebrate a significant milestone in the career of Bo Holten, who marks 50 years as one of Denmark’s most distinguished composers. Holten’s prolific output includes an impressive nine operas, most recently the grand opera about Martin Luther, Schlagt sie tot! He has also composed six solo concertos, four symphonies, a diverse array of orchestral and chamber music, and more than 50 works for choir. His music extends into film, where he has collaborated with renowned directors such as Lars von Trier and Bille August.
To honor this occasion, Musica Ficta, the acclaimed vocal ensemble founded by Holten in 1996, will present a celebratory concert on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Sankt Johannes Kirke (St. John’s Church) in Copenhagen. The program will feature a selection of Holten’s works that reflect his career as both a composer and conductor, as well as the premiere of Fire surrealistiske madrigaler (Four Surreal Madrigals), with lyrics by Danish poet and humorist Storm P.
Holten’s compositions are characterized by their lyrical expressiveness, vivid tonal palette, and a deep fascination with both early music and modern sensibilities. His choral works, including First Snow, Nordic Suite and a variaty of arrangements of Danish folk songs are performed often. In opera, Holten has achieved extraordinary success with works such as The Visit of the Royal Physician (Livlægens besøg), which has become one of the most sold-out operas in recent years, captivating audiences with its powerful storytelling and masterful music.
Holten’s ability to craft compelling instrumental music was recently highlighted in his Trombone Concerto, Concerto Lirico, written for Jesper Busk Sørensen from the Berliner Philharmoniker. This piece showcases Holten’s skill in creating beautiful melodic lines while exploring the unique qualities of the solo instrument in dialogue with the orchestra.
Bo Holten says:
Fifty years is a moment to reflect—and I hadn’t realized just how much I’ve written and conducted over the years. I am a composer who conducts which is a rare combination. And there aren’t many of us left. This dual role has shaped my music, naturally linking the worlds of creation and performance. I’ve always been deeply connected to the music I create and have loved the opportunity to champion works that connects to audience and feel meaningful and alive.
Later this year, all four of Bo Holten’s symphonies will be released on Danacord Records, offering a comprehensive overview of his contributions to symphonic music and further cementing his legacy as one of Denmark’s leading composers.
