Ensemble Denada is recognized for its demanding art music, performed with a groovy twist and a dash of absurd Norwegian esprit. This 14-piece ensemble from Oslo may look like a big band, but it is truly an oversized quintet. The size and the line up generates some unique musical opportunities, boosting the interaction between composer/bandleader Helge Sunde and the performers.

It is a musical collective where the creative process leading from the rehearsal room to the stage is the main asset. Blending strict composition and total improvisation, Ensemble Denadas music is attractive to a large audience. The band has just finished recording music for a new album. In the summer and fall of 2009, Ensemble Denada will play concerts in Norway, England, Spain, Germany and Italy. Ensemble Denada is the ensemble of East Norway Jazz Center, and receive funding from Arts Council Norway.

Press:

"BRING ENSEMBLE DENADA BACK TO LONDON!"

"This is one of the most versatile, high-spirited and original 15-piece bands heard in London for years. As they strode up to the bandstand, playing spiky counterpoint, an evening of free-form New Orleans beckoned. Moments later, their four saxes, three trumpets and three trombones punched out meaty ensembles with the precision of a top Las Vegas showband". (Evening Standard, London UK)

"DENADA IS SO GOOD THAT IT DESERVES
TO BE EXPERIENCED IN TOTO"

"Helge Sunde and his band have produced an album that is both thought-provoking and forwardlooking, but never looses its will to swing. "Denada" is by far one of the best albums of big band jazz of the last decade". (All about jazz, USA)

"DELIGHTFUL AND SUBLIME, BRUTE FORCE"

The concert moved from atonal madness at full power into lyrical passages and meditative folk themes, constantly embellished with innovative impulses and musical esprit (Adresseavisen, Norway)