Ole Schmidt (1928–2010) was a central figure in Danish musical life as a composer and conductor, known for combining classical form with the rhythmic and harmonic freedom of jazz. He began as a jazz musician, trained at the Royal Danish Academy of Music as a pianist and conductor and studied composition with Vagn Holmboe. He made his debut in 1955.

As a composer, he wrote works in many genres, including concertos, chamber music, ballet, opera, and film music, with a particular affinity for the string quartet, which he cultivated throughout his life. He had a close connection to musical theatre and served as ballet conductor at the Royal Danish Theatre. As a conductor, he enjoyed a significant international career and led several Danish and foreign orchestras. His recordings of Carl Nielsen’s symphonies with the London Symphony Orchestra are considered pioneering. Schmidt is remembered as an energetic and uncompromising artist who demonstrated that classical music can be contemporary and open to new influences without sacrificing artistic quality.

Two prominent Danish musicians, both professors at the Royal Danish Academy of Music, guitarist Jesper Sivebæk and accordionist Bjarke Mogensen, undertook a research project to explore some of Ole Schmidt’s lesser-known works, a true treasure for their instruments. The outstanding chamber orchestra of today’s young musicians at the Royal Danish Academy of Music is conducted by Max Artved, and joining them is also Bjarke’s partner in the Mythos Duo and concertmaster of the Danish National Symphony Orchestra, Christina Åstrand.