Industry Talk: Karl Seglem

“Tell us about yourself, who are you and how did you begin as an artist?”

I’ve been a freelance musician and composer since 1985 and I am an acclaimed Norwegian musician, composer and poet, and have created my own musical identity, fusing the sound of my different goat horns and tenorsax with the Norwegian Hardanger fiddle. I started to play the tenorsax when I was 12 years old, and I grew up in Årdalstangen, close to the Sognefjord and Jotunheimen.

“Can you tell us a bit about your music, how would you describe it?”

My music has a broad aesthetic spectrum going from the most serious folk tradition to the most engaged rocking freeform sounds. Written words about my music has been: A trans-global sound machine. Bursting primal power, strong beautiful melodies, improfolk and electronic dreamscapes. It’s both an acoustic & electric journey, and many critics call it a new approach to create universal Norwegian music. In 2014 I was described as “A National Music Treasure” by daily newspaper Aftenposten.

“What inspires you when creating music?”

Being outside in the force of nature – but also to meet other human beings in all occasions. And to play with different musicians.

I also like to cook – almost a hobby. I like to run, and sit by a fireplace anywhere, anytime.

“You are selected as one of the participants of Global Music Match, tell us a bit about the program? What do you hope to achieve during the 6 weeks of the program?”

I’ve already learnt a lot and met musicians I never would have listen to or heard about if this did not happen. It’s great fun and very inspiring in my work. I hope to get more listeners listening to my music in new territories and also to get new contacts, widening my network. Such as musicians that I can collaborate with in the future. But also promotors, labels, booking-people, festivals and more. Hope all out there will listen to my music – give it a try!!!

“The program has a focus on export, what are your ambitions as an artist internationally?”

The potential for my music is big and I have big ambitions for both concerts/tours and releases. During the pandemic I have created and worked hard in my studio and rehearsal room. I will release a double album autumn 2021 – it’s my 40th album, and during next year release videos and singles. I hope there will be possibilities to travel a lot then and present my music live – which I love.

“What is the best advice you have ever received?”

Be patient, work hard, and be honest to the music deep inside you.