Several of Sigmund Groven’s albums were re-issued with new front cover artwork (and in case of CDs, new booklets). Wether this was due to changing record companies or improvements in design technology or information requirements have not been explained, but collectors and fans may want to be aware of the… Continue reading
For decades, Vårsøg (Breath of spring) has been one of Norway’s most popular songs and tunes. Recognized by generations, the song was composed by Henning Sommerro in 1971, who took the lyrics from Hans Hyldbakk’s (1898 – 2001) poem by the same name. Many people perceive the words as a… Continue reading
Sigmund Groven is not only a master harmonica performer and a versatile composer, he is also an experienced recording artist. His discography now counts 30 albums, starting with Så spiller vi harmonica in 1975. That means a new album almost every 18 months for nearly 45 years! Sigmund’s records span a variety… Continue reading
Among the many awards and recognitions Sigmund has received throughout his career – including the Royal Norwegian St. Olav order – is the honorary NOPA membership. This accolade was given to Sigmund in 2002. NOPA is the Norwegian trade union for composers and lyricists. They currently have 902 members, but only six… Continue reading
Sigmund Groven has travelled practically all over the world with his small companion, the harmonica. In the US Sigmund made musical history in 1990, when he became one of the few harmonica players ever to be featured at Carnegie Hall with a classical recital. Throughout the 1990s Sigmund went on… Continue reading
Did you know that Sigmund credits one person and one specific event for becoming a composer? Back in 1971, Sigmund was asked by Erik Bye to compose the melody to Så spiller vi harmonica / Song of the harmonica, a poem Bye had written. Until then, Sigmund had not been confident… Continue reading
Sigmund Groven has composed more than 350 tunes and songs. He has recorded over 250 tracks with various artists, as well as 30 albums in his own name. The music database Discogs lists more than 150 works/albums/songs that he contributed to as a musician, composer or producer. He has received 15… Continue reading
In 2003, Sigmund became the unfortunate victim of a robbery. While adjusting items in his car’s trunk, just outside his apartment in Oslo, a person snatched a backpack placed on the sidewalk. The backpack held a case with two custom made harmonicas, both with Sigmund’s name on them. Sigmund reported the theft… Continue reading
