One of the most frequently performed piano concertos and the only piano concerto that Grieg ever wrote, when he was only 25 years old. It was this music that established him among the most important composers of his time as well as one of the most important musicians creating music for his country, Norway. Like much of the music Grieg wrote, it is a musical flagship for Norway, containing Norwegian melodies and symbolising the Norwegian beautiful but melancholic summer scenery. As Tchaikovsky had written “there prevails that fascinating melancholy which seems to reflect in itself all the beauty of Norwegian scenery, now grandiose and sublime in its vast expanse, now grey and dull, but always full of charm … and quickly finds its way into our hearts to evoke a warm and sympathetic response.”
There is a kind of warmness that you feel when you listen to this piece. It captures not only Grieg’s love for Norway but most importantly for its summertime. Despite its dramatic introduction, it is very melodic and emotional and seems to appeal to everybody, remaining fresh even today and overflowing with beautiful music. Suggested title: "Norwegian majesty"