The ETSU Chorale has invited pianist/composer Ola Gjeilo for a special set of two concerts. This first event features Ola playing his own compositions for piano and performing improvisations with guest saxophonist Ted Belledin. Ola was born in Norway and studied at the Norwegian Academy College of Music in Oslo and the Royal College of Music in London. He moved to the United States to begin his composition and piano studies at the Juilliard School in New York City. His debut recording as a pianist-composer was the lyrical crossover album “Stone Rose,” released in 2007. This was followed  in 2012 by “Piano Improvisations,” both on the 2L label. Ola is currently based in Atlanta.

Ted Belledin studied at the Eastman School of Music. He is now one of the busiest freelance musicians in Arizona. He is a member of the Shining Star Band, Dennis Rowland’s Jazz Experience, and performs regularly at the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences. In addition to playing saxophone, Ted also doubles on piano and clarinet, composes, arranges, sequences music and has a growing recording studio. In 2002, he recorded an album with Joe Morris and Ray Riendeau titled “Arrythmia.” The groove-oriented project includes original compositions with influences ranging from jazz and funk to twelve tone composition. He has appeared on several albums including releases by Kinch, Stan Sorenson, The Trophy Husbands, Ray Riendeau, Joe Morris, Azz Izz, Adam Clark, Jodi Light and more.