Edvard Grieg's "Peer Gynt, Op. 23" is a famous suite of incidental music that he composed for Henrik Ibsen's play "Peer Gynt." Here are some interesting facts about it:
Inspiration: Grieg composed the music between 1875 and 1876. The play itself was written by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen.
Suite Format: The music for "Peer Gynt" is often performed as two separate suites, each containing several movements. The suites include some of Grieg's most well-known and beloved compositions.
Morning Mood: One of the most recognizable pieces from the suite is "Morning Mood" (Morgenstemning). Its serene and peaceful melody is often associated with the sunrise and has been widely used in popular culture.
In the Hall of the Mountain King: Another famous movement from the suite is "In the Hall of the Mountain King" (I Dovregubbens hall). This piece is lively and intense, reflecting the scene where Peer Gynt is being chased by trolls in the mountains.
Original Performance: The complete incidental music for "Peer Gynt" was first performed in 1876 at the Christiania Theater (now Oslo) in Norway. Grieg conducted the orchestra himself.
Nationalistic Elements: Grieg infused the music with Norwegian folk elements, contributing to the development of a distinctly Norwegian musical identity.
Widely Used in Media: The music from "Peer Gynt" has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, making it one of the most recognizable and frequently used classical compositions in popular culture.
Legacy: Grieg's "Peer Gynt" suites remain some of his most popular and enduring works, showcasing his ability to capture the essence of the Norwegian landscape and folk traditions in his compositions.