‘Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46’ by Edvard Grieg is a masterful orchestral work that has captivated audiences since its publication in 1888. This suite, along with Suite No. 2, Op. 55, which followed in 1893, originated from the incidental music Grieg composed for Henrik Ibsen’s play ‘Peer Gynt.’ The original score, Op. 23, contains 26 movements that beautifully capture the essence of Ibsen’s dramatic narrative.
In creating the first suite, Grieg selected four movements that stand out for their vivid characterizations and memorable melodies. These movements are:
Morning Mood (Morgenstemning) in E major: Known for its serene and pastoral opening, this piece evokes the tranquility of a sunrise with its gentle, flowing melodies. It has become one of Grieg’s most recognizable works.
The Death of Åse (Åses død) in B minor: A somber and deeply emotional piece, it portrays the sorrowful moments surrounding the death of Åse, Peer Gynt’s mother, with a touching and introspective melody.
Anitra’s Dance (Anitras dans) in A minor: This lively and exotic dance reflects the encounter between Peer Gynt and Anitra. Its rhythmic and playful character contrasts with the other more somber movements of the suite.
In the Hall of the Mountain King in B minor: Perhaps the most famous piece in the suite, this movement is characterized by its increasing tempo and intensity, depicting Peer Gynt’s encounter with the Mountain King and his subsequent flight from the trolls.
Grieg’s music for ‘Peer Gynt’ is notable for its incorporation of Norwegian folk elements and its vivid storytelling through orchestral color. The suite’s popularity is a testament to Grieg’s ability to distill the essence of the larger work into these concise, yet richly expressive pieces. The piano arrangements of these movements, while maintaining the essence of the orchestral originals, offer a more intimate rendition that captures the nuances of Grieg’s musical language.
