Aslak Brekke
1901–1978 (age 77)
Biography
Aslak Brekke was born in Vinje in 1901 and became a cherished voice in Norwegian folk music, singing the hardanger fiddle tunes and ancient ballads passed down through the mountains of Telemark. His interpretations of farmhouse songs carried the intimate rhythms of village life into concert halls, radio broadcasts, and recordings, giving a wider audience a glimpse of the deep roots of his homeland.
He later took great care to share these traditions with younger singers, keeping the melodies alive in gatherings and festivals, and was remembered for the warmth and sincerity of his performances long after he passed in 1978.