Hans Mathisen

Hans Mathisen (b. 1967) is a Norwegian jazz guitarist and composer with a significant standing in the Scandinavian jazz scene. A graduate of the Jazz Department at NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) in Trondheim, he has been active as a performer, composer, and bandleader since the early 1990s.

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Mathisen´s compositional voice is marked by strong melodic lines, harmonic sophistication, and a deep connection to the American jazz tradition. His work often blends lyrical expression with complex structures, and his guitar playing is recognized for its clarity, nuance, and emotional depth.

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He has released several albums featuring leading Norwegian and international musicians. His debut recording Quiet Songs (2004) was awarded the Spellemannprisen, Norway’s equivalent of the Grammy Award, in the jazz category.

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In addition to his work as a solo artist and composer, Mathisen has contributed significantly to Norwegian jazz education and community life. He has long served as the conductor of the Sandefjord Big Band and is the artistic director of the annual Fjordjazz festival in his hometown.

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In 2024, Mathisen received both the Norwegian Jazz Forum’s Big Band Prize and an award from the Southern Norway Jazz Centre, recognizing his extensive contributions as a composer and arranger for large jazz ensembles nationwide.

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His most recent large-scale project, Orchestral Works 2, features the Norwegian Radio Orchestra (KORK) and six of Norway’s foremost jazz soloists. The suite, which premiered in 2024, exemplifies Mathisen’s ability to bridge orchestral writing with improvisational forms.

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The full concert is available via NRK’s streaming platform: https://tv.nrk.no/serie/kork-jazz

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Mathisen also writes music for films, stage productions, and cultural events. His arrangements have been featured at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert, performed by KORK alongside internationally renowned artists.