Christian L. Stahr is a Norwegian composer, orchestrator, and music director based in Cary, North Carolina, working across theatre, film, and concert music. Trained in Oslo and New York, his work blends classical craft with emotional storytelling and a contemporary cinematic voice.
A graduate of the University of Oslo, the Norwegian Academy of Music, and NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Christian began his professional career in His Majesty the King’s Guard, where he composed, arranged, and performed for the Norwegian Royal Family and at official government events.
As a music director and orchestrator, Christian has collaborated with PlayMakers Repertory Company, Burning Coal Theatre, Raleigh Little Theatre, North Raleigh Arts and Creative Theatre, and Cary Players. His credits include Once, Sunday in the Park with George, A Little Night Music, Merrily We Roll Along, Company, My Fair Lady, Pippin, and Cinderella. His concert work has included composing and orchestrating for major cultural events such as the 450th Anniversary Celebration of Fredrikstad and Åges Danseband’s 10-Year Celebration Concert in Symphony at Rockefeller Concert Hall in Oslo.
His recent film work includes composing for the short film Bembe, written and directed by Zayre Ferrer. The film has appeared at several festivals, including the Brooklyn Film Festival, Gatffest Film Festival in Jamaica, and Dances With Films in Los Angeles, with additional festival appearances scheduled for fall 2026. He is also composing for Ferrer’s documentary film Soneo.
Christian’s original musicals include Let’s Be Frank, 4Real, and Olav den Heldige (St. Olaf the Lucky One). From 2018 to 2024, he served as Director of Culture at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in New York, curating performances and collaborations that connected Nordic and American artists.
In March 2026, Christian released his solo piano album, When Light Returns. He now works internationally from his North Carolina studio, composing, orchestrating, and music directing projects that bring stories to life through sound.