Projects
Esther Kverno Trio
Esther Kverno Trio is a modern jazz piano trio formed in Oslo in the autumn of 2021, featuring Håkon Huldt-Nystrøm (double bass), Theodor Dalseth (drums), and Esther Kverno (piano and compositions). The three musicians met during their studies at the Norwegian Academy of Music and have since performed at venues across Eastern and Western Norway, including Spor 5 (Stavanger), Hadeland Jazzklubb, and Sentralen (Oslo).
The trio performs original compositions influenced by modern Norwegian jazz, contemporary music, and free improvisation. Their music is characterized by contrasts and a strong sense of interaction, where structured compositions meet spontaneous improvisation. They explore the possibilities of the acoustic trio format in pursuit of a personal, profound, and meaningful expression.
Esther Kverno - Solo project
Esther Kverno’s solo project is a personal and atmospheric exploration of sound, built around piano, synthesizers, and live electronics. Drawing from both the acoustic and electronic realms, she creates cinematic soundscapes that blend contemporary jazz, ambient textures, and minimalist elements.
The solo material features composed pieces alongside open forms that invite improvisation, allowing each performance to be a unique expression of the moment. With a strong melodic core and emotional depth, the music often balances fragility and intensity, silence and motion.
This project is where Esther’s voice as both a performer and composer comes most intimately to the forefront. Whether in intimate venues or on larger stages, her solo performances aim to create a space for reflection, presence, and resonance.
E.K.O.
Esther Kverno Orkester (E.K.O.) is a genre-crossing octet led by pianist and composer Esther Kverno. The ensemble brings together a distinctive collection of instruments and musicians to explore new sonic landscapes, combining acoustic textures with electronic elements.
With its unconventional instrumentation, EKO blends influences from contemporary jazz, Norwegian folk music, and modern classical music. The ensemble is rooted in composition yet leaves space for improvisation and intuitive interplay. The sound is intimate, exploratory, and layered, often evoking a cinematic or storytelling quality.
EKO is a platform where color, texture, and dynamic range are central tools in creating immersive musical experiences. The ensemble is currently developing new material and preparing for future performances and recordings.
The ensemble features:
Tiril Einarsdottir – Hardanger fiddle
Jomar Jeppson Søvik – Drums
Andrine Dyblie Erdal – Cello
Magnus Løvseth – Tuba
Esther Kverno – Piano and synthesizers
Kristian Enkerud Lien – Acoustic guitar
Kristina Fransson – Trumpet and electronics
Ella & Esther
Ella & Esther is a vocal-piano jazz duo based in Oslo, featuring Ella Rørstad (vocals) and Esther Kverno (piano). Their collaboration began during their studies in Stavanger and has since evolved into a mature and versatile musical partnership. The duo explores a wide range of genres with a strong emphasis on interpretation, storytelling, and emotional depth.
Their repertoire includes interpretations of jazz ballads and standards, as well as selections from pop, folk, and original compositions. Over the past six years, they have performed at various events and concert venues across the Rogaland region and in the Oslo area. With backgrounds in jazz performance and ongoing pedagogical studies at the Norwegian Academy of Music, both artists bring a deep sensitivity and professionalism to their work.
Ella & Esther tailor their performances to suit different occasions and audiences, and they are experienced in performing at private events, festivals, conferences, weddings, and memorial services. The duo is also open to performing with an expanded ensemble when needed.
