Olav Jørgen Hegge

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Olav Jørgen Hegge (died August 26, 2005) was a Norwegian fiddler and folk dancer with American ties. He was raised in Øystre Slidre, Valdres, Norway, much of his family included fiddlers and dancers. A master Hardanger fiddler and dancer himself he was also the founder of the Twin Cities Hardingfelelag of Minnesota. Considered the leading tradition bearer of the Hardanger fiddle and the dance style from his home valley, he both played and danced for over 35 years. Recipient of the 1996 Saga Prize (Saga-prisen) by Saga Petroleum ASA and the Norsk Folkemusikk- og Danselag, naming him as a master teacher for a young musician.

He also judged fiddle competitions, both regional and national, and taught Hardanger fiddle at the University of Oslo and the Ole Bull Academy in Voss.

Olav and his wife Mary Sanford Hegge would trade time throughout the year between Norway and St. Paul, MN until Olav died August 26, 2005. Mary continues to dance and teach at the American Swedish Institute, and Tapestry Folkdance Center.