Thomas Strønen: A Little Tiny BeatJazz at MUNCH
Thomas Pohlitz Strønen is one of Europe's most active and prominent drummers. He is behind a number of solo projects and bands, has composed extensively for stage and art projects, and has many releases on ECM Records and other labels.
In 2023, he premiered the commissioned work A Little Tiny Beat (Et Ørlite Beat) at Kongsberg Jazz Festival. The previous year he had received the jazz festival's prestigious musical award – the DNB Prize. Now, the 2026 Jazz at MUNCH series opens with a new performance of this groundbreaking work, which uses hiphop references, film and dance, among other elements. The beat-driven work is rooted in what Strønen himself describes as ‘physical music’.
Acoustic and electronic sounds are shaped by wind instruments driving rhythmic grooves. With two drummers in the line-up, the band cooks up a tantalising, hypnotic, minimalist beat that will get your feet moving while remaining ultra-controlled.
A Little Tiny Beat brings together today's promising young talents with experienced players. The work is a composed and improvised soundscape with acoustic and electronic elements. Here, the visual aspect plays an equally important role as the music. Strønen and his dream-team band transport the audience into a multisensory and groundbreaking universe.
Performing musicians
Henriette Eilertsen – flute
Espen Reinertsen - saxophone/electronics
Kalle Nyberg - sax/electronics
Heida Karine Mobeck – tuba/electronics
Veslemøy Narvesen - drums/vocals
Thomas Pohlitz Strønen – drums/electronics/compositions
Ståle Storløkken – synth/piano
Jo David Meyer Lysne – guitar/installations
