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Edvard Grieg's "Peer Gynt, Op. 23" is a suite of music composed for the play "Peer Gynt" by Henrik Ibsen. Here are some interesting facts about this famous work:

1. Origins and Premier: Grieg composed the incidental music for "Peer Gynt" in 1875. The play premiered in Oslo on February 24, 1876, with Grieg's music performed by an orchestra. The suite was later extracted from the play and became highly popular in its own right.

2. Suite No. 1 and Suite No. 2: Grieg created two suites from the original incidental music. Suite No. 1, which includes some of the most well-known movements like "Morning Mood" and "In the Hall of the Mountain King," was completed in 1888. Suite No. 2 was completed in 1891.

3. "Morning Mood": Perhaps the most famous piece from "Peer Gynt," "Morning Mood" depicts the rising of the sun. Its gentle and lyrical melody has been widely used in various contexts, from films to commercials, making it one of Grieg's most recognizable compositions.

4. "In the Hall of the Mountain King": This piece is one of Grieg's most famous and is used frequently in popular culture. It represents Peer Gynt's encounter with trolls in the hall of the Mountain King. The music builds in intensity, reflecting Peer's attempts to escape from the trolls' clutches.

5. Inspiration from Norwegian Folk Music: Grieg drew heavily from Norwegian folk music in creating the score for "Peer Gynt." He incorporated folk tunes, rhythms, and scales, giving the music a distinct national flavor.

6. Recognition and Impact: Grieg's "Peer Gynt" suites have become some of the most recognizable and frequently performed pieces in classical music. The music's widespread popularity has transcended the world of classical music, making it accessible to a broad audience.

7. Edvard Grieg's Nationalism: Grieg is often considered a nationalist composer, and his incorporation of Norwegian folk elements in "Peer Gynt" reflects his commitment to promoting Norwegian musical identity on the world stage.

8. Legacy: "Peer Gynt" has been adapted into various forms of media over the years, including film, stage productions, and ballets. Grieg's music has played a significant role in keeping the story alive and has become synonymous with the character of Peer Gynt.

Grieg's "Peer Gynt" stands as a testament to his ability to capture the essence of a dramatic narrative through music, creating a lasting impact on both classical and popular culture.