Roger Vignoles, the pianist on this recording, was inspired by Gerald Moore to pursue a career as a piano accompanist.
Performer Biography
Monica Groop, the mezzo-soprano on this recording, made her professional debut in 1987 as Charlotte in Massenet's Werther with the Finnish National Opera.
Composer Biography
Edvard Grieg and Nina Grieg, the composer's wife and the dedicatee of his Op. 18 songs, were cousins.
Composer Biography
Edvard Grieg's engagement to Nina Grieg was initially opposed by both their parents, with Nina's mother stating he "is nothing and owns nothing and he composes music that no one wants to listen to."
Composer's Artistic Vision
Edvard Grieg believed his wife, Nina Grieg, was the "only true interpreter of my songs" due to her miraculous voice and ability to express the innermost soul of the texts.
Composer Biography
Edvard and Nina Grieg experienced profound sorrow when their only child, Alexandra, died suddenly at 13 months old.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Edvard Grieg's goal in composing songs was not merely to set music to text, but "to let the poet's most secret intentions find expression."
