On October 24, 2024, the Italian Ambassador to Oslo, Stefano Nicoletti, awarded Bente Johnsrud the Honor of Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy.
The Order of the Star of Italy (OSI) is awarded by the President of the Italian Republic to Italian citizens residing abroad and to foreigners who have distinguished themselves for particular merits in promoting ties with Italy.
Bente Johnsrud was Administrative Director of the Oslo Cathedral Choir for seven years and in 2000 she founded the Oslo International Church Music Festival, of which she is the Artistic Director.
Ambassador Nicoletti, in handing over the honor, commented: “As Director of the Oslo International Church Music Festival, Bente Johnsrud, as a sincere interest in Italy, and has given ample space to our country, consolidating over the years a fruitful collaboration with the Italian Cultural Institute in Oslo. This collaboration has given rise to numerous projects that have allowed the Italian sacred music scene to acquire prestige and visibility in Norway, such as with the participation of the Accademia Bizantina, a world-famous early music ensemble, which this year had the privilege of inaugurating the Festival program with “The Triumph of Time and Disillusionment” by Händel”.
The Oslo International Church Music Festival, now in its 23rd edition, is one of the most important music festivals in Norway and presents a varied musical program, inserted in a broader context that sheds light on social issues such as discrimination, integration, freedom of religion, human rights and the role of women in music.
