“This will be my last concert, and I haven’t told anyone,” acclaimed violinist Arve Tellefsen announced onstage Sunday evening, marking the end of a remarkable career. The performance, held at Nordfjell Gejstegård in Eidskog, Norway, was a sold-out event featuring pianist Håvard Gimse and folk musician Knut Buen, according to Mitt Eidskog.
Tellefsen explained to the audience that nerve issues in his wrist are causing a loss of feeling in his fingers, and he is scheduled to undergo surgery on Wednesday.
At 89 years old, Tellefsen is a beloved figure in Norwegian music, having performed with leading orchestras and conductors worldwide and earning numerous accolades throughout his long career. The concert served as a poignant farewell to a musical icon.
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Tellefsen is known for playing a Guarnerius violin from 1741, which he sold in 2017 with the agreement that he could continue to use it for as long as possible. The instrument has been a constant companion throughout his decades-long career.
The artist has faced health challenges in recent years, revealing last year that he has been living with Parkinson’s disease for 15 years and received cancer treatment in the neck three years ago. These health battles have undoubtedly influenced his decision to retire from performing.
“I also have problems with my right hand due to Parkinson’s,” Tellefsen shared with Hallingdølen last summer, recalling a moment during a concert at the Nesbyen Festival where he nearly dropped his violin.
Most recently, Tellefsen contributed to the soundtrack of the recent animated film “Flåklypa – from Paris to the Pyramids,” collaborating with music producer Matoma on the closing song, “Sju & TrædveMil.” The appearance underscored his continued relevance in the Norwegian cultural landscape.
