Asamisimasa is a contemporary classical music ensemble based in Oslo, Norway. The group was founded in 2001 by a group of young musicians who shared a passion for exploring new and experimental music. The ensemble's name is derived from the Japanese word "asa" meaning "morning" and "misimasa" meaning "massive." The founding members of Asamisimasa were percussionist Håkon Stene, clarinetist Kristine Tjøgersen, cellist Tanja Orning, and pianist Ellen Ugelvik. Over the years, the ensemble has expanded to include a rotating cast of musicians, including saxophonist Rolf-Erik Nystrøm, guitarist Anders Førisdal, and accordionist Frode Haltli. Asamisimasa has gained a reputation for their innovative and boundary-pushing performances, often incorporating elements of improvisation and multimedia into their shows. The ensemble has collaborated with a wide range of composers and artists, including Helmut Lachenmann, Alvin Lucier, and Christian Wolff. One of Asamisimasa's most notable performances was their 2011 concert at the Ultima Oslo Contemporary Music Festival, where they premiered a new work by composer and sound artist Trond Reinholdtsen. The piece, titled "The Bell," featured a live performance by the ensemble alongside a pre-recorded soundtrack of bells and other sounds. In addition to their live performances, Asamisimasa has released several critically acclaimed recordings, including their 2014 album "Everything is Wrong," which features works by composers such as Laurence Crane and Simon Steen-Andersen. The ensemble has received numerous awards and accolades for their work, including the prestigious Norwegian Grammy Award (Spellemannprisen) in 2015 for their album "Asamisimasa Plays the Music of Øyvind Torvund." The album features compositions by Norwegian composer Øyvind Torvund, who is known for his use of unconventional instruments and sound sources. Asamisimasa continues to push the boundaries of contemporary classical music, collaborating with composers and artists from around the world and bringing their unique sound to audiences across Europe and beyond.

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