Grieg wrote this happy-sounding music to celebrate his 25th wedding anniversary with his soprano wife, Nina.
He and his wife often performed together in concerts and she was an inspiration for many of his compositions. They lived at the Norwegian countryside, at their house called "Troldhaugen" (Troll's hills), overlooking a lake near Bergen.
Through this piece, Grieg is recollecting his marriage 25 years ago and his emotions on that day. Light, festive and joyful, the first part most probably describes the scene of guests, conveying wishes to the newly weds and the glorious and overwhelming happiness that the couple felt in these moments. The second part suggests a much more intimate and nostalgic mood, which may be interpreted as Grieg's yearning for the past. And in the final part, enthusiasm rises again, revealing Grieg's intention to leave us with the message that marriage continues to be as exciting and wonderful as in the past. Overall, a music piece which represents Grieg's beautiful and joyous memories of the past.