Christina Åstrand

Christina Åstrand is in all respects a remarkable and versatile violinist, whether as a soloist, a chamber musician or as leader of the Danish National Symphony Orchestra – a position she has held since winning it in 1993 at the age of 22. Her repertoire in both solo concerts and chamber works ranges from classical masterpieces to brand-new contemporary music, and she is known for her always exciting and personal interpretation of the works. Åstrand has given the first performances of several violin concertos, and recorded a number of them. She is one of the few violinists in the world to master György Ligeti’s Violin Concerto.

Åstrand is a frequent guest soloist with symphony orchestras, especially in the Nordic countries, playing the major classical violin concertos. Both as soloist and chamber musician Åstrand has collaborated with several Danish composers. She has performed and premiered works by established artists like Hans Abrahamsen, Per Nørgård and Pelle Gudmundsen-Holmgreen as well as pieces from the new young generation of composers. Chamber music represents a vital part of Åstrand’s repertoire. Since 1996, she has played in Duo Åstrand/Salo with pianist Per Salo; in addition to giving countless concerts, they have recorded several highly praised and award-winning CDs.