In 1989, when Ingar Kristiansen attended ”The Ultimate Event” in Oslo (a concert featuring Liza Minelli, Sammy Davis Jr, and Frank Sinatra), he knew instantly that he wanted to be a part of the crooning experience, one way or another. However, ten years passed by before he started performing songs with different big bands in the Oslo area. And this, he claims, was a most treasured learning experience.

In 2000 he formed his own sextet, The Sinatra Songbook, consisting of professional musicians. It was meant to be a one night only gig, but as it turned out they all got such a kick out of what they did (the audience too!) and decided to continue. In addition to several TV performances, Kristiansen and his group have toured and played at all sorts of clubs, festivals and venues in Norway. And they have released two highly critically acclaimed albums as well, consisting of both standard and original material.

A personal highlight was being the guest star with The Count Basie Orchestra during the Oslo Jazz Festival in 2019.

His list of the most inspiring vocalists: Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr, Harry Connick Jr and Bobby Darin.