Gustavsen first studied psychology at Oslo University before learning jazz at the Trondheim Conservatory. After becoming a key figure in Norway’s music scene, he began recording as the Tord Gustavsen Trio, before later expanding to quartet and ensemble. Constantly exploring, Gustavsen also incorporates electronics into his set-up. In 2016, he presented ”What Was Said,” a project which combined ancient Norwegian hymns and Sufi-poems. Gustavsen continues to tour extensively, and has also written a paper researching the psychology of improvisation.