Bengt-Arne Wallin

Bengt-Arne Wallin was a pioneering figure in the fusion of Swedish traditional folk music and modern jazz, earning him the moniker 'The Swede who combines jazz with Nordic roots.' Born in Linköping, Sweden, in 1926, Wallin was a versatile musician, excelling as a trumpeter, flugelhorn player, composer, and arranger. His career spanned over five decades, during which he collaborated with numerous international jazz artists and ensembles, including Arne Domnérus Orkester and the Lars Gullin Octet. Wallin's innovative approach to blending traditional Scandinavian folk melodies with contemporary jazz harmonies and rhythms resulted in a unique sound that captivated audiences worldwide. Beyond his jazz contributions, Wallin also composed film scores and even taught jazz at the Stockholm Music Conservatory for two decades. His legacy continues to inspire musicians seeking to blend traditional folk elements with modern jazz sensibilities.