A trio of Nordic composers has found their way into the regular concert repertoire: Norway’s Edvard Grieg, Finland’s Jean Sibelius and Denmark’s Carl Nielsen. These are universally established masters, but what about other composers from the Nordic countries? How often do we hear symphonies of Gerhard Schjelderup (Norway), songs by Oskar Merikanto (Finland) or quartets of J.P.E. Hartmann (Denmark)?
Because there are so many of them, it’s a challenge to make a short list of Nordic composers who deserve your attention, but here are five favorites.
Sweden
The German-born composer Joseph Martin Kraus (1756 – 1792) made his name at the court of Swedish King Gustavus III. An outstanding composer of stage works, Kraus’s music is filled with the drama and delicious melodies. Kraus was admired by Gluck and Haydn (he met both during travels to Vienna), so lovers of the elegant music of the classical era will certainly be drawn to him.
Norway
Johan Svendsen (1840 – 1911) was highly regarded in Norway, but his music hasn’t enjoyed the same popularity outside of the Nordic world as his contemporary Edvard Grieg. Unapologetically Romantic, Svendsen’s orchestral music sings gloriously and will appeal to anyone who admires the German symphonic tradition.
Finland
Kalevi Aho (b. 1949) is one of Finland’s brightest and best composers, but still hasn’t earned the international acclaim he deserves. A composition student of Rautavaara, Aho is best known for his highly original symphonies, but also writes fascinating music in every genre. Like Hindemith and Berio, Aho has a bottomless knowledge of every instrument and has written superb works for all.
Denmark
Rued Langgaard (1893 – 1952) was a tremendously prolific composer whose eccentric behavior and anti- establishment stances put him at odds with the tastemakers of his day. Because of this, his music has languished in obscurity and it's only recently that it's enjoyed a renaissance. He wrote in every genre, but it’s his 16 symphonies that are especially appealing. Written in the lushly expansive style of Richard Strauss, the symphonies reach heights of Scriabin-like passion that are thrilling.
Iceland
Jón Leifs (1899 – 1968) wrote in a highly personal style that was inspired by Icelandic lore and natural wonders. Leifs also drew on Icelandic folk music and quotes from native music are found in much of his music. Leifs’s music has a muscular, almost primal power that features, in his orchestral works, folk instruments and exotic percussion. His mix of ancient and modern styles makes his music truly unique.
Featured album
Our featured album focuses on the music of the Swedish composer Allan Pettersson (1911 – 1980), a tortured soul who has only recently received his due. Best known for his symphonies (he wrote 15 and two incomplete fragments), his intense music is streaked with darkness that’s dotted with sardonic humor and macabre moments. Admirers of Mahler and Shostakovich will find much to like in Pettersson’s music.
The Norrköping Symphony Orchestra conducted by Christian Lindberg performs Pettersson’s Symphony No. 2 and the world premiere of Lindberg’s performing edition of Symphony No. 1, a work the composer never completed.
--Craig Zeichner
Editor, Ariama.com
by Craig Zeichner
Featured Albums
