Hans Jacob Torkildsen – Tenor

Hans Jacob Torkildsen has been member of the Oslo Gospel Choir (OGC) since its inception in 1988. Before that, he had already been singing, playing piano and guitar, and was no stranger to the wonderful world of choirs, having previously participated in other ensembles both as a singer and as a director of two Christian youth choirs. But the OGC was something new; as he puts it, “The first rehearsal was a shock! I had never heard such sound and power, and I loved it!”

Hans Jacob lives on a farm outside Oslo with his wife and two sons. He has worked as Marketing Manager for Kirkens Bymisjon (Oslo City Mission) for the last 12 years, and views his work as an opportunity to spend time with people he respects and enjoys, while making a difference.

He brings that same philosophy to his participation in OGC, saying, “The joy of singing with the Oslo Gospel Choir has brought meaning and happiness to my life since the very beginning; in addition to the musical challenge, it’s a great place to be for me as a person. We’re all very different people, but have found a good way of blending in our voices, personalities and spirituality.” He goes on to say, “Thank you to the choir and everyone who has listened to us all these years! I hope the Oslo Gospel Choir will continue to make a difference to people for many years to come!” Of that, there is no doubt.