Stenhammar: Sången, Reverenza & Romeo och Julia Suite

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Wilhelm Stenhammar with this captivating album, featuring a selection of his most beloved works. This recording, released in 2018 by BIS, showcases the composer's unique voice and his profound connection to Swedish musical traditions.

The album opens with Stenhammar's "Romeo och Julia Suite, Op. 45," a romantic and evocative work arranged for orchestra by Hilding Rosenberg. The suite is a beautiful blend of pastoral serenity and lively dance rhythms, offering a rich tapestry of orchestral colors. Following this, the "Serenade in F Major, Op. 31: II. Reverenza" provides a moment of elegant reflection, showcasing the composer's mastery of orchestral texture and harmony.

The album also includes two arrangements of traditional Swedish folk tunes, "Gammal fäbodpsalm från Dalarna," which offer a glimpse into Stenhammar's deep roots in his native country's musical heritage. The vocal work "Sången, Op. 44" is a powerful and dramatic piece, featuring a chorus and soloists, that highlights Stenhammar's skill in choral writing and his ability to convey profound human experiences through music.

Under the baton of Neeme Järvi, the Göteborgs Symfoniker delivers a compelling and nuanced performance, bringing out the full richness and depth of Stenhammar's compositions. With a running time of just over an hour, this album is a perfect introduction to the music of Wilhelm Stenhammar, offering a compelling blend of romanticism, folk influences, and orchestral virtuosity.

Wilhelm Stenhammar, a towering figure in Swedish music, was a multifaceted artist whose genius spanned composition, conducting, and piano performance. Born in Stockholm, Stenhammar is often hailed as the father of 20th-century Swedish music, with his works revered both at home and increasingly recognized internationally. His piano concertos, particularly the First, have garnered critical acclaim and numerous recordings, showcasing his romantic and stylish compositional style. As a pianist, Stenhammar brought a high standard of music-making to his audiences, while his conducting efforts championed contemporary music. His legacy includes a rich body of work that celebrates the essence of Swedish musical heritage, making him a pivotal figure in the country's cultural history.