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Grieg’s Masterpieces and Popular Works: Pieces That Evoke the Nature of Norway

Edvard Grieg, who drew inspiration from Norwegian folk music, gained recognition as a composer of the national romantic school.

He left behind numerous masterpieces, and his name has continued to resonate long after his death.

Many of Grieg’s works are beautiful pieces that evoke Norway’s rich natural landscapes.

In this article, we introduce some of Grieg’s famous and popular works.

From piano pieces and songs to orchestral and wind band music, his output spans many genres.

Whether you’re familiar with classical music or not, we encourage you to experience his music at least once!

Grieg’s Masterpieces and Popular Works: Pieces That Evoke the Nature of Norway (41–50)

Poetic Tone Pictures, Op. 3 No. 5Edvard Grieg

Grieg: Lyric Pieces, Op. 3 – No. 5 / Yoshinoha Akita (46th Prizewinners’ Commemorative Concert, A1 Division [Gold Prize])
Poetic Tone Pictures, Op. 3 No. 5Edvard Grieg

Poetic Tone Pictures, Op.

3 by the Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg is a piano collection that showcases the vibrant sensibility and overwhelming talent he displayed at the age of 21.

The fifth piece, characterized by a bright and gentle tone, is particularly striking for its romantic and lyrical melody.

Grieg’s uniquely rich expressiveness and pianistic writing make it highly instructive for piano students.

Not only as an etude, but also as a piece through which you can savor the joy and beauty of music, it is well worth performing.

Grieg’s Masterpieces and Popular Works: Pieces That Evoke the Nature of Norway (51–60)

piano concerto A-mol op.16Grieg

Grieg: Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 16, First Movement
piano concerto A-mol op.16Grieg

A piano piece by the Norwegian composer Grieg.

He was apparently 25 when he wrote it, and it was such a masterpiece that he never composed another piano concerto afterward.

The opening phrase is so famous that almost everyone has heard it at least once.

From the Concerto in A minor (from Glover Piano Method, Vol. 3)Edvard Grieg

From the Concerto in A Minor / Glover Piano Method Book 3 (page 35) [Recommended for recitals!] (Arranged version of Grieg’s Piano Concerto)
From the Concerto in A minor (from Glover Piano Method, Vol. 3)Edvard Grieg

The Grover Piano Method is appealing for its simplicity that captures the essentials of piano learning.

Its structure helps students naturally acquire knowledge such as note values, time signatures, and keys, while developing sight-reading and expressive skills.

The main text consists of seven volumes—from an introductory book ideal for first piano lessons, followed by Vol.

1 through Vol.

6—and is complemented by a rich selection of supplementary materials, including companion song collections, short pieces, technique books, and drill books.

Because it also contains many elements of music theory, it’s an ideal resource for highly focused children aiming for a high level of achievement.

morningEdvard Grieg

Classical Masterpiece: Grieg - Morning .wmv
morningEdvard Grieg

Grieg was a composer of the national romantic school who was deeply influenced by Norwegian folk music, and because he wrote many piano pieces, he is also called the “Chopin of the North.” This “Morning” is a piece independent from the stage play Peer Gynt, and the melody played by the flute is said to represent birdsong.

Ich liebe dichEdvard Grieg

I Love You (Grieg) Ich liebe dich (Grieg)
Ich liebe dichEdvard Grieg

It is a vocal piece.

At the beginning, an indescribably sweet and gentle piano accompaniment draws the song in.

In this piece, “Ich liebe dich” is repeated many times, allowing one to feel true love.

In particular, the part where the singer vows eternal love expresses eternity through the use of tenuto and fermata.

Symphonic DancesEdvard Grieg

Edvard Grieg – Symphonic Dances / Danses Symphoniques
Symphonic DancesEdvard Grieg

It is also known as the Four Symphonic Dances.

It was originally composed as a piano duet and later completed as an orchestral arrangement.

The piece opens in a very light and lively manner, and overall it has a brilliant, festive character.

When introducing calmer sections, the soft timbre of the bassoon is frequently employed.

secretEdvard Grieg

Grieg Lyric Pieces Book VI No. 4 “Secret” Op. 57
secretEdvard Grieg

A piece from Volume 6 of Lyric Pieces, published in 1893 by Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg.

Grieg spent 34 years completing this collection of 66 pieces.

This work is characterized by profound lyricism and delicate emotional expression rooted in Norway’s nature and national character.

The structure, in which the right and left hands seem to converse, and the contrast between quiet passages and powerful sections are striking.

The arpeggiated chord that rings out at the end imparts a sense of resolution.

Inspired by Norway’s climate and folklore, this piece is recommended for those seeking quiet introspection and emotional depth.