Petter Sundkvist

Petter Sundkvist is a Professor in Orchestra Conducting at the Luleå University of Technology - School of Music in Piteå, affiliated with the Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts and the Music, Media and Theatre division. His research subject focuses on Musical Performance, with particular expertise in contemporary music and historical performance practices.

Born in Boliden, a small mining village in northern Sweden, Sundkvist began his musical journey as a trumpeter in his father's Wind Band. He pursued studies in cello and piano before specializing in conducting at the Stockholm Royal College of Music under renowned instructors Jorma Panula, Kjell Ingebretsen, and Eric Ericsson. In 1993, he further developed his expertise in contemporary music through studies with Peter Eötvös.

Sundkvist has established himself as one of Sweden's most sought-after conductors with a diverse repertoire spanning from classical masterworks to 21st-century compositions. His research interests encompass contemporary music performance, eighteenth and early nineteenth century music interpretation, orchestral conducting techniques, and opera production. His scholarly work demonstrates a particular focus on Swedish composers, with acclaimed recordings of Joseph Martin Kraus's works that earned international recognition including the Cannes Classical Award.

His recent artistic outputs reveal a strong emphasis on contemporary composition and performance, particularly through his work with Norrbotten NEO ensemble. The publications show a consistent focus on new music creation, festival performances, and celebrations of Swedish musical heritage.

Sundkvist's scientific recognition includes the prestigious Cannes Classical Award in 1999 for his first Kraus CD recording, reflecting his exceptional contribution to music recording and performance.

As an academic leader, Sundkvist chaired the workgroup that envisioned and realized Studio Acusticum, a high-end concert hall and studio with exceptional acoustics that now serves as the home of Norrbotten NEO. His collaborative work extends to numerous major orchestras and ensembles across Scandinavia and internationally.

Sundkvist founded and served as Artistic Director of Norrbotten NEO (2007-2012), an extended Pierrot Lunaire ensemble dedicated to contemporary music. He also held leadership positions as Principal Conductor and Artistic Director of the Norrbotten Chamber Orchestra (1999-2012) and Piteå Chamber Opera (2006-2012), significantly contributing to the regional music scene.