Edvard Grieg (GREEG) was the most famous composer of Norway. He was sometimes called the "Chopin of the North." One of his most popular works is the Peer Gynt Suite. He lived in a time when many composers felt proud of their countries (nationalism) and were using folk melodies in their classical compositions. Grieg, put the spirit of Norway into his compositions, and the people loved it.

Grieg's parents were both musical. His mother was an excellent pianist. Edvard was more of a dreamer than a doer. His teachers considered him lazy and stupid. He hated his studies and resented being ridiculed by his teachers. He later said that the school developed only what was bad in him and left the good untouched. Even when his mother let him take piano lessons, he was unhappy to learn that he needed to practice! Grieg was talented, however, and by the time he was twelve he could play the piano well. He also wrote his first composition and took it to school, hoping to receive praise. The children loved his music, but his teacher told him that next time he should bring his German homework and leave the stupid music at home! (His teacher didn't know that music makes children smarter!)

When Edvard was in his early teens, Ole Bull, a famous Norwegian violinist, heard him play and convinced the parents to send Edvard to the Conservatory in Germany. But Grieg was never happy composing in the German tradition. It wasn't until he went back to Norway that he became enthused about composing authentic Norwegian music. Rather than using specific folk themes, he captured the spirit of his country in music.

Liszt heard Grieg's Sonata in F Major for violin and piano and was very impressed. Liszt supported Grieg and helped promote his music. He was enthusiastic about Grieg's Piano Concerto in A Minor. The main theme is included in the selections you may choose  to hear.

Grieg married his cousin, Nina Hagerup, who was a singer. He wrote many songs for her. They held many recitals together, Mrs. Grieg singing Mr. Grieg's songs.