Born June 7, 1955. Instrument: Piano Jon Balke (1955). Balke was born in Furnes (Norway) and has been a professional musician ever since 1974. Balke is not a trained musician or composer and has been primarily involved in improvised music. Balke’s main instrument was the piano, which eventually led to electronic keyboards. In 1982, he began to compose for larger ensembles. He composed his first work for Oslo 13, a small big band. Since then, he has written works for theatres and chamber ensembles as well as big bands and jazz groups. Balke’s musical activities have always been multi-faceted. There is one, the search for maximum spontaneity, which has led to the formation of orchestras that are more reliant on pure improvisation. This development culminated in Balke’s very successful trio with Audun Kliive (keys, drums, and trumpet). There is also a desire for chamber music that is well-constructed and has an orchestral expression that transcends traditional forms. Source: Music Information Center Norway
