Uhørt! Wilhelm III + BYGE

Satirical humour in jazz?! and west coast positivism - Free entry Music competitions may be a slightly odd thing, but they are a wonderful place to be introduced to new, exciting bands! Tonight we are visited by two winners in our book: Among the finalists for Young Jazz Musicians of the Year 2026, decided at Moldejazz in July, we find Wilhelm III. This autumn they are touring with their debut album in their luggage, and there is every reason to look forward to it, regardless of how it goes in Molde! Wilhelm III is made up of three daring, Trondheim-based jazz musicians. Their realm is the immortal swing beat, where they reign with energetic interplay, great spontaneity and playfulness. The music is self-composed, inspired by the American free bop tradition that flourished in the mid-20th century, as well as Viennese classical music with modern impulses (!). Through satirical compositions and a strong visual expression, Wilhelm III invites you into a universe mirrored by hope, humour and surrealism! Isak Hungnes - piano, Johannes Lykkås - bass, Erik Wie Flaig - drums. BYGE originates from the jazz programme at the Grieg Academy, and last year they won the competition Jazz i Sikte, organised by Bergen Jazz Forum and the West Norway Jazz Centre. This gave the band the opportunity to play at the major festivals Nattjazz and Sildajazz, in addition to several subsequent concerts to great success. BYGE draws inspiration and elements from Scandinavian jazz, free improvisation and pop. As the name more than suggests, they also draw inspiration from their West Norwegian surroundings and nature, both in melodies, soundscapes and lyrics. BYGE also has a debut album just around the corner! Hanna Elise Hærum - vocals, Erle Dimmen - saxophone, Katrine Helland - trumpet, Adrian Olsen - piano, Ask Viste - bass, Linus Solvang - drums. Photo: Emilie Myrene Stokke