Ragnhild Hemsing's VETRA releases 'Unbound' album blending Norwegian folk and jazz

Ragnhild Hemsing's ensemble VETRA has digitally released the album 'Unbound' across all streaming platforms. The seven-track collection features original compositions by Hemsing that merge Norwegian folk traditions with contemporary jazz influences. She performs on both classical violin and Hardanger fiddle, drawing inspiration from her childhood in Valdres and the cyclical nature of winter referenced in the group's name. Collaborating with prominent Norwegian jazz musicians Mathias Eick on trumpet, Steinar Raknes on double bass, and Terje Isungset on percussion and jaw harp, the music creates expansive Nordic soundscapes. Specific pieces include 'Bånsull,' a lullaby written for her daughters' bedsides, and 'Peer's halling,' composed for a Peer Gynt production in Oslo. The album explores themes of tradition, freedom, and personal expression through instrumental works that capture Norway's natural environment. VETRA will perform concerts in Germany on April 19, 2026 at Residenzmuseum in Paderborn and May 22, 2026 at Bodenseefestival in Weingarten. The release is distributed by Edel:Kultur under the Berlin Classics label.