When Swedes are asked, “What is the best time of summer?”, the answer might be “this Thursday”—it’s that short. No wonder all Scandinavians just love their summer, and the long hours of mid-summer daylight that profoundly energize body, mood, and mind.
For Music of the Week, we are presenting a Swedish classic celebrating summer: Originally composed for solo piano, “Intåg i Sommarhagen” belongs to the Flowers of Frösö (Frösöblomster) cycle of compositions conceived by Swedish romantic composer Wilhelm Peterson-Berger between 1896 and 1914.
Sommarhagen (“Summer Garden”) was Peterson-Berger’s home on the island of Frösön in Jämtland famous for its 1000-year-old runestone. Peterson-Berger lived at Sommarhagen during the summers of 1914–1930, and then permanently until his death in 1942. Today, Villa Sommarhagen is a museum and Frösön’s most popular tourist destination during the summer.
The version we are listening to is an arrangement for wind orchestra by contemporary composer Jerker Johansson.
Related:
Wilhelm Peterson-Berger on Wikipedia
About Peterson-Berger and Sommarhagen
My Swedish ancestry resonated beautifully with this little gem? Thank you❣️
I so love your recommendations for music, books, films, etc. This week’s “Summer” is particularly welcome after a cold and windy week, dampened further by my internet going out for a week, along with the entire heating system for my high altitude Colorado house. Brr, but all is well today.
Another CD that has some inspiring short songs (not highbrow) that I use when traveling or just relaxing are selected tunes from “Around the Campfire” collection by Peter, Paul and Mary. It has some classics like “We shall overcome” and “Study war no more”.–definitely folk songs from a more innocent time, but still inspiring.
I purchased the recommended Tallis CD and find it very welcomeoften play it for winding down before retiring. Read Sheldon’s “Put your money where your life is,” [and others] and have recommended it. It’s great to have these recommendations to round out the often somber news, that is also so welcome and important. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I asked for a copy of your prayer book, but I do appreciate your reflections and examples of faith in action.
You are a great inspiration. Thank you!
Thanks, Mary. Will check out Sheldon.