This appeals to people and means something to them. He has never striven for this status, in fact would prefer it if all the publicity would concentrate solely on his music. He does also put this popularity to use, for charity and positive causes for example, which gives trim the chance to see other dimensions and perspectives in life. In some conservative circles being popular is defined as being too commercial, which is taken as a sign of lack of identity. Ole Edvard cites a necessity to have performed new music.
New music plays part in one's credibility.
Ole Edvard often works together with composers.-Concertos are often written for me, which I then premiere. I find this very stimulating. He has also worked in collaboration with instrument makers.-This work is interesting, although it unfortunately consumes a lot of time. At regular interval I work together with instrument makers on various models, it's a collaboration, which benefits both sides. At the same time I feel that I have enough to do in order to play really well on the instruments I already own.