Edvard Grieg

Norwegian Dances, Op. 35 [arrangement]

Edvard Grieg (1843-1907) drew material for his NORWEGISCHE TÄNZE, Op. 35 (4 NORWEGIAN DANCES), originally scored for piano and four hands, from an 1853 collection of Norwegian folk tunes compiled by Ludvig Mathias Lindemans. He published a two-hand version a few years later. In 1888, Czech violinist Hans Sitt transcribed the work for full orchestra. The first dance is based on a Scottish tune. The last three dances, folk dances known as hallings, come from the Hallingdal region of Norway and are often performed by two or three males to show off their agility and strength.

The current Kalmus reprint edition does correct a few errors, particularly in the horns and tuba parts. Instrumentation: 2+Picc.2.2.2: 4.2.3.1: Timp.Perc(2): Hp: Str (9-8-7-6-5 in set).