Ole Bull
1810–1880
Source: Library of Congress
Biography
Ole Bull (1810-1880) was a Norwegian violinist and composer who became one of the most celebrated musicians of the nineteenth century. Born in Bergen, Norway, Bull achieved international fame as a virtuoso performer, touring extensively throughout Europe and America and captivating audiences with his technical mastery and emotional expressiveness. Beyond his performing career, Bull was a cultural nationalist who championed Scandinavian music and attempted to establish a Norwegian colony in Pennsylvania, blending his artistic pursuits with broader cultural and social ambitions.