Support Subsonic Society - Save our work places and Oslo's music history.
This message expresses strong concerns about a recent decision by the Norwegian government, particularly the Ministry of Culture, led by Culture Minister Lubna Jaffery and Justice Minister Emilie Enger Mehl, to allocate NOK 77 million to the Jewish Museum Oslo. The result of this decision will force the eviction of the Subsonic Society, a music studio complex with 12 full-time jobs, 25 years of Norwegian music history, and a central role in Oslo’s music production scene, from its premises in Calmeyers gate 15b by January 1, 2026.
Subsonic Society has been a hub for Norwegian music since 2000, producing around 550 albums and 1,200 singles, with several awards and significant contributions to national and international radio playlists. It also houses Norway's only vinyl mastering studio, along with other music-related businesses, including a repair workshop and a rehearsal space for young artists.
The decision to grant funds to the Jewish Museum for purchasing the building puts Subsonic Society on the street without compensation or support to relocate. Despite appeals to the Cultural Directorate and the Ministry of Culture, no response has been received. The music studio community faces potential dissolution, losing millions of kroner in investments, infrastructure, and significant contributions to Norway's music and culture industry. This decision has been met with disbelief and frustration as it risks dismantling a key part of the Norwegian music industry.
Vegard Kleftås Sleipnes, managing director of Subsonic Society, writes on behalf of all affected parties, including other studio owners and professionals, stressing that while they respect and have good relations with the Jewish Museum, the government’s decision prioritizes one cultural institution at the expense of another essential part of the music and creative sector in Norway.
Sleipnes urges the government to reconsider or provide support for Subsonic Society to relocate, so that 25 years of music heritage and 12 jobs are not lost due to this decision.
Maya Alvarez Contact the author of the petition