Orphei Drängar (OD), the chorus on this album, started in 1853 as a singing society and quickly dominated the academic choir life of Uppsala.
Historical Context
Male chorus singing in Scandinavia was an offshoot of the 19th-century German Liedertafel tradition, initially serving social and ritual functions.
Composer Biography
Eric Ericson, the conductor of Orphei Drängar, is considered a pioneer in modern Swedish choral life and founded the Stockholm Chamber Choir over 40 years ago.
Performer Biography
Hugo Alfvén, one of Sweden's most important composers, served as Orphei Drängar's fifth conductor, significantly raising their quality and broadening their repertoire.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Eric Ericson is credited with being the principal creator of the "Swedish choral sound," recognized worldwide for its perfect intonation, balance, and special purity of sound.
Performer Biography
Orphei Drängar, despite being an amateur chorus with singers having other professions, performs at the same artistic level as the best mixed choruses.
Historical Context
By the end of the 19th century, male choruses in Scandinavia also became a vehicle for the nationalistic wave that had reached the region.
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