Interest in the Gomnes music definitely increased when scores of many original compositions by Hans O. Gomnes were found in the home of Olaf Fure in 1977. The music was exceptionally well written and a person can’t help but wonder where an ordinary farmer from Hole could have learned so much music theory. Here the fact can be noted that Gudbrand Nilson Gomnes (1777-1861) became the first organist in Hole about the year 1800.

As an organist he must have taught himself the notes, but we don’t know where or how. This man must have had an exceptional interest in music and the ability to interest his community in it also.

Gudbrand N. Gomnes had two sons: Nils, born in 1812, and Anders, born in 1821. During this same decade sons were born to many others in the family. These boys became accomplished musicians: Hans O. Gomnes, born in 1811, Jorgen Rytterager and Anders A. Dealhli, born in 1812, Nisls G. Gomnes, born in 1814, Ivar Rytterager, born in 1818, and Andres Gomnes and Jens Daehli, born in 1821. Of older generations we find Organist Gudbrand Gomnes and Jens Daehli born in 1786. These men no doubt started the Gomnes music which became known “Ostlandset” (Eastern Norway) both as performing musicians and composers.

Toralf Fure tells that his grandfather talked about the trips to Land and Valdres on musical assignments. They would be gone for days at a time. Their orchestra was composed of 4 to 5 persons who would play violins, cellos, contrabass and clarinet. Anton Gomnes told Ragnar Grude that all musicians contributing to the Gomnes music were so talented that they often exchanged instruments. In fact, most could play any instrument used in the orchestra.