Leif Ove Andsnes is a leading pianist of his time, known for his exceptional musicianship and subtle touch, his considerable technical flair being unfailingly put at the service of his interpretations. He was a pioneer for being the first home-trained superstar pianist to have emerged from Norway. This box is the story of a 20-year partnership that has yielded a rich seam of recorded treasures, first for Virgin and then for EMI. Running through this cornucopia of 34 albums (36 CDs), we find recurring themes: Grieg (Andsnes even recorded some Lyric Pieces on the composer’s own piano at Troldhaugen), Nordic music in general, Schumann, Rachmaninov, Schubert.

Leif Ove Andsnes is a world-renowned Norwegian pianist known for his exceptional musicianship and technical proficiency. Born in 1970, Andsnes began playing the piano at a young age and quickly developed a passion for classical music. He went on to study at the Bergen Music Conservatory, making his debut in Oslo in 1987, and later at the Juilliard School in New York.

Over the course of his career, Andsnes has established himself as one of the most prominent pianists of his generation. He has recorded extensively, both as a soloist and in collaboration with other musicians, and has won numerous awards for his performances and recordings, including the Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik in 1997, the Gilmore Artist Award in 1998 and many Gramophone awards. Known for his advocacy of Edvard Grieg’s compositions, he performed his Piano Concerto at the Last Night of the Proms in 2002.

In addition to his work as a performer, Andsnes is also a committed advocate for contemporary music, and has commissioned works from a number of prominent composers. He has also been recognised for his philanthropic efforts, including his support of music education programmes in Norway and around the world.