Performing Barefoot & Beating Cancer
A Genuine Sense of Wonder
“When Tine Thing Helseth comes on stage, she possesses a lovely and unpretentious presence, rich humanness, and a genuine sense of wonder.”
— Guernica
Since the beginning of her career, Norwegian trumpeter Tine Thing Helseth (TEEN-eh ting HEL-set) has championed the trumpet repertoire amongst audiences on all six continents, meriting the highest critical praise for her soulful, lyrical sound and collaborative approach to music-making. An artist who challenges the boundaries of genre with an intensely creative, open-minded philosophy, Tine’s ever-expanding repertoire ranges from the classical period to contemporary works and new commissions.
Despite her acclaim, Helseth’s career hasn’t been a linear journey. For the first decade of her career she performed over 125 concerts a year. The intense schedule led to crippling burnout and she went on hiatus in 2015. Helseth eventually returned to the mainstage, but her climb wasn’t over yet.
The joy of life and making music
“What a year it’s been! A year filled with joy of life and music making – but also trying to find balance and strength moving forward. A serious diagnosis like cancer changes your life completely, both physically and emotionally. It will never be the same. I am grateful that I am cancer free, I am grateful for all the wonderful people I have in my life, and I am grateful that I get to travel the world and make music 😍”
—Tine Thing Helseth, 2024
In 2021, Helseth received a shocking diagnosis. She had cancer. For over eight months, she put down her trumpet, unsure if her career was over. Since her recovery, she has reestablished her relationship with the instrument, but on much more manageable terms.
When Helseth does travel, she performs firmly planted in her choice…and barefoot. “When I was younger, I always wore heels,” Helseth says. “But at some point, I said ‘no.’ I wanted to feel more grounded. Yeah, it feels good! I feel very free. I feel like I’m ready for anything.”
Helseth’s story was made into a Norwegian documentary which released in December of last year. An international version of the film is said to be in the works.
Helseth joins the KSO on the mainstage for our opening night performance, Symphonic Dances on Sept. 28.
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