Five essential works by Grieg

Piano Concerto

Including one of the most famous concerto openings, Grieg’s sole completed work in the genre won Liszt’s admiration.

Recommended recording:
Leif Ove Andsnes; Berlin Philharmonic/Mariss Jansons
EMI 394 3992

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Peer Gynt

Grieg’s incidental music to Ibsen’s drama includes two perennial hits – ‘Morning’ and the splendidly menacing ‘In the Hall of the Mountain King’.

Recommended recording:
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra/Thomas Beecham
EMI 965 9342

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Lyric Pieces

These unassuming yet haunting pieces sowed the seeds for some of the most revolutionary and forward-looking music of the 20th century.

Recommended recording:
Emil Gilels
DG 449 7212

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Holberg Suite

Classical grace appropriately informs this suite in homage to the 18th-century Norwegian-born playwright Ludvig Holberg, born a year before Bach, Handel and Scarlatti.

Recommended recording:
Norwegian Chamber Orchestra/Terje Tønnesen
BIS CD 147

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Haugtussa

Grieg’s genius is most evident in his songs, largely inspired by the singing talent of his wife. His song cycle Haugtussa (‘The Mountain Maid’) is one of his greatest works, with strikingly impressionistic piano writing.

Recommended recording:
Katarina Karnéus (mezzo-soprano), Julius Drake (piano)
Hyperion CDA 67670