About
TLDR:
"BK Sannerud (b. 1986) is a non-binary Norwegian interdisciplinary artist and composer based in Stockholm, Sweden. They hold a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts in Performing Arts and Media with a Specialization in Sound Design from the Stockholm University of the Arts. With over 15 years of experience, their artistic practice spans music, sound, video, installations, sculptures, and light design."
BK's work transcends various artistic mediums such as theatre, film, dance, performance, and video games. They are skilled in composing music across diverse genres, from classical orchestra scores to avant-garde electronic music. Their passion for exploring the fusion of technology and art is evident in their innovative approach to sound design.
Influenced by their rural upbringing in Eastern Norway, BK has a deep connection to nature and rurality. This connection has inspired them to create art that democratises "high culture," such as theatre, classical music, and other performing arts. BK is passionate about exploring the intersection of technology and art, often employing cutting-edge tools and techniques in their work, such as Computer Aided Composing, coding, AI, and innovative MIDI devices.
As a child, BK's mother encouraged them to play the piano as a way to activate their body and left hand affected by Cerebral Palsy. This early exposure to music ignited BK's love for sound and its ability to communicate with the world. As they grew up, their interest in music expanded into various genres, from Norwegian black metal to jazz fusion and minimalism. Bernt is particularly inspired by the Japanese band Yellow Magic Orchestra, whose innovative use of synthesizers and computers has left a lasting impression on their work.
BK's main instrument is the piano, but their disability has led them to explore the potential of computers and other digital music controllers. They strive to create dense, organic electronic music by drawing inspiration from the way acoustic instruments are played. Recently, BK has been experimenting with interactive performances, creating opportunities for musicians and audiences to exchange agency and influence musical pieces in real-time or with pre-recorded music.
With a diverse resume spanning theatre, dance, film, and other performing arts, BK is a highly sought-after artist in their field. Their work has been featured in over 20 plays, five short films, and numerous dance productions. BK's commitment to innovation, artistic collaboration, and the democratisation of art has solidified their place as a creative force in the world of music and performing arts.
Showreel 2023 (in Swedish)
“…Under skeendet spelar Simfoniettan vacker, stillsamt poetisk symfonisk musik.”
- Lars Ring SvD (om Melancholia)
“I stället för Wagners värld av tonal upplösning, som i filmen, har Bernt Karsten Sannerud komponerat helt andra slags domedagsmotiv och planetbrus med melankoliska och minimalistiska undertoner.”
- Johanna Paulson DN (om Melancholia)
“Med sugande suggestion dras de in i en dansande virvel av makt, vänskap, begär, skuld, svek och död […] till Bernt Karsten Sanneruds dunkelt sinnliga ljuddesign.”
- Karin Hellander SvD (om Dark Minds)