Midsommarvaka (Swedish rhapsody)

Infos :

Swedish Rhapsody No. 1 is the subtitle of Midsommarvaka a symphonic rhapsody by the Swedish composer Hugo Alfvén (1872 – 1960). Although it is only the first of three similarly named works, it is often simply called the "Swedish Rhapsody".The Rhapsody was written in 1903. It is the best-known piece by Alfvén, and also one of the best-known pieces of music in Sweden. The score, published around 1906, describes it as a fantasy on popular Swedish folk melodies depicting the moods evoked by an old-time Swedish Midsummer wake; the dancing and games around the May-pole through the magic night of Midsummer Eve. One theme is the composer's own invention, while other themes are borrowed from the folk-music of Sweden and elaborated by the composer. The Rhapsody was adapted as a ballet, La Nuit de St Jean, choreographed by Jean Börlin.

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