Gunnar Idenstam, the concert organist, composer, and folk musician on this album, is known for his virtuosic playing, improvisations, and innovative approach to organ art.
Historical Context
Until well into the previous century, Sweden was largely a peasant society where folk music, including work songs, narrative ballads, and dance music, was an integral part of country life.
Performer Biography
Gary Graden, the artistic director of S:t Jacobs Chamber Choir since 1984, was named Sweden's Choral Conductor of the Year in 2005.
Performer Biography
Gunnar Idenstam was the first, and to date only, Scandinavian organist to win the prestigious international 'Grand Prix de Chartres' in improvisation in 1984.
Performer Biography
S:t Jacobs Chamber Choir, featured on this album, has won several of Europe's most important choral competitions, including the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing.
Cultural Impact
The Folkjul concerts, from which this album stems, explore the interplay between Swedish folk culture and 'high culture', revitalizing familiar materials and presenting a new view of Christmas.
Compositional Technique
In Gunnar Idenstam's arrangements, newly composed hallings or polskas intertwine with old Christmas melodies, symbolizing how folk musicians dance around traditional chorales and hymns.
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