Composer

:

Erland von Koch

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

1:40

"De blomster som i marken bor" is a choral work composed by Swedish composer Erland von Koch in 1953. The piece was premiered in Stockholm on May 17, 1953, by the Swedish Radio Choir under the direction of Eric Ericson. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, "De blomster som i marken bor" (The Flowers that Bloom in the Field), is a lively and energetic setting of a traditional Swedish folk song. The choir sings the melody in unison, with the harmonies shifting and changing underneath. The second movement, "Sommarnatten" (Summer Night), is a slower and more contemplative piece, with a gentle melody and lush harmonies. The final movement, "Vid havet" (By the Sea), is a dramatic and powerful setting of a poem by Swedish poet Bo Bergman. The choir sings in a rich, full-bodied harmony, with the music rising and falling like the waves of the sea. One of the most striking characteristics of "De blomster som i marken bor" is its use of harmony. Von Koch was known for his innovative approach to harmony, and this piece is no exception. The harmonies are often complex and unexpected, with chords shifting and changing in surprising ways. This creates a sense of tension and release that adds to the emotional impact of the music. Another notable feature of the work is its use of folk melodies. Von Koch was deeply influenced by Swedish folk music, and he often incorporated folk melodies into his compositions. In "De blomster som i marken bor," he uses a traditional Swedish folk song as the basis for the first movement. This gives the piece a distinctly Swedish flavor and connects it to the country's rich musical heritage. Overall, "De blomster som i marken bor" is a powerful and emotionally charged work that showcases von Koch's innovative approach to harmony and his deep connection to Swedish folk music. Its premiere in 1953 was a significant event in Swedish choral music, and it remains a beloved and frequently performed piece to this day.

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