The idea behind På 1–2–3 is simple: to give outstanding artists the opportunity to immerse themselves in the music of a single composer over three intense days. Children and young people join the entire journey of discovery — both as performers and as audience members — and are invited into the music on its own terms.
Ludwig van Beethoven — perhaps the greatest of them all, at least in the eyes of the Engegård Quartet — died on 26 March 1827. In the anniversary year of 2027, the quartet will mark the 200th anniversary of his death with three classical mini–festivals devoted to Beethoven’s early, middle and late periods. World–class musicians will come to Oslo to interpret his music, while the Engegård Quartet itself will perform all 16 of Beethoven’s string quartets — a musical universe that forever created a very clear “before” and “after” in the history of music.
We promise deep dives, fresh perspectives on music you may already know, and discoveries that might surprise even the seasoned Beethoven listener. Did you know, for instance, that Beethoven also wrote music for a ballet? This could become Norway’s most extensive Beethoven venture in chamber music in 2027 — bringing together world stars, children and young people, interdisciplinary artistic encounters, and a strong local connection.
Some of you may have noticed that there will be no På 123 festival in 2026. That’s because the Engegård Quartet is using the year to prepare for the great anniversary celebration. We hope you’ll forgive us a one–year pause when the reward is three festivals to look forward to in 2027.
Festival host, the Engegård Quartet, are one of Norway’s most sought–after chamber music ensembles. The quartet is known for its bold, fresh and vibrant interpretations of the classical repertoire, while preserving and carrying forward its distinctive Scandinavian musical character. The ensemble has earned widespread international recognition and forged close collaborations with some of the world’s leading chamber musicians. The result is concert programmes marked by artistic excellence, curiosity and rich diversity.
