Sweden has a rich and diverse musical heritage, producing some of the most influential and innovative composers in the history of classical and contemporary music. From the Baroque era to the present day, Swedish composers have made significant contributions to the global music scene, blending traditional Nordic elements with various musical styles to create unique and enduring works.
This article explores the lives and legacies of the greatest Swedish composers, highlighting their most notable compositions and the impact they have had on the development of music both in Sweden and internationally.
Whether rooted in Romanticism, modernism, or contemporary trends, these composers have shaped the sound of Swedish music and continue to inspire musicians and audiences around the world.
21 Greatest Composers from Sweden of All Time
Contents
- 1 21 Greatest Composers from Sweden of All Time
- 2 #1 Wilhelm Stenhammar
- 3 #2 Hugo Alfvén
- 4 #3 Franz Berwald
- 5 #4 Allan Pettersson
- 6 #5 Dag Wirén
- 7 #6 Kurt Atterberg
- 8 #7 Lars-Erik Larsson
- 9 #8 Carl Michael Bellman
- 10 #9 Wilhelm Peterson-Berger
- 11 #10 Ture Rangström
- 12 #11 Gösta Nystroem
- 13 #12 Anders Hillborg
- 14 #13 Johan Helmich Roman
- 15 #14 Elfrida Andrée
- 16 #15 Bo Linde
- 17 #16 Fredrik Sixten
- 18 #17 Ingvar Lidholm
- 19 #18 Hilding Rosenberg
- 20 #19 Anders Eliasson
- 21 #20 Erland von Koch
- 22 #21 Jan Sandström
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These composers have each played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Swedish music, contributing to its rich and diverse heritage across various musical periods and styles.
Here’s a list of 21 greatest Swedish composers who have made significant contributions to classical and contemporary music:
#1 Wilhelm Stenhammar
Wilhelm Stenhammar was one of Sweden’s most important late-Romantic composers, renowned for his contributions to symphonic, choral, and chamber music. Born in 1871 in Stockholm, Stenhammar initially trained as a pianist and conductor, studying in Berlin and later in Stockholm. His compositional style was deeply influenced by German Romanticism, particularly the works of Brahms and Wagner, though he eventually developed a more nationalistic voice. Stenhammar’s works include two symphonies, six string quartets, and two piano concertos, with the Piano Concerto No. 1 being particularly celebrated for its lyrical beauty.
His choral work Sången (The Song) is another significant piece that reflects his deep connection to Swedish folk traditions. Stenhammar also served as the chief conductor of the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra, where he played a key role in raising the standard of Swedish orchestral music. His legacy as a composer and conductor continues to influence Swedish classical music.
#2 Hugo Alfvén
Hugo Alfvén was a prominent Swedish composer, conductor, and painter, best known for his orchestral works that often evoke the landscapes and traditions of Sweden. Born in 1872 in Stockholm, Alfvén studied violin and composition at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm. His music is characterized by its rich orchestration and strong melodic lines, often incorporating Swedish folk music elements. Alfvén’s most famous work is the Swedish Rhapsody No. 1, also known as Midsommarvaka (Midsummer Vigil), which has become synonymous with Swedish national identity. He also composed five symphonies, with his Symphony No. 2 being particularly admired for its lush, Romantic qualities.
In addition to his work as a composer, Alfvén was an accomplished conductor and served as the director of the Uppsala University Men’s Choir for many years. His contributions to Swedish music and his ability to capture the spirit of his homeland in his compositions have made him a central figure in Sweden’s cultural heritage.
#3 Franz Berwald
Franz Berwald was a Swedish Romantic composer whose innovative and unconventional music was not fully appreciated during his lifetime but later gained recognition as some of the most significant in Swedish music history. Born in 1796 in Stockholm, Berwald initially pursued a career as a violinist before turning to composition. His music is marked by its originality, structural innovation, and bold harmonic language, which was ahead of its time. Berwald composed four symphonies, with Symphony No. 3 in C major, known as Singulière, being one of his most celebrated works.
Despite his compositional talent, Berwald struggled to gain recognition and often had to support himself through various business ventures, including running a glass factory and an orthopedic clinic. It was not until the 20th century that his music was re-evaluated and he was acknowledged as one of Sweden’s most important composers. Today, Berwald’s works are performed regularly, and he is considered a pioneer of Swedish Romantic music.
#4 Allan Pettersson
Allan Pettersson was a 20th-century Swedish composer known for his deeply emotional and complex symphonies, which reflect his personal struggles and existential concerns. Born in 1911 in Stockholm, Pettersson grew up in poverty and faced numerous hardships throughout his life, including chronic illness. These experiences profoundly influenced his music, which is characterized by its intensity, dissonance, and introspective nature.
Pettersson’s most significant contributions are his 17 symphonies, which are often described as monumental in scale and deeply expressive. His Symphony No. 7 is particularly notable for its power and depth, becoming one of his most performed works. Despite facing resistance from the Swedish musical establishment during his lifetime, Pettersson’s music has gained recognition for its originality and emotional impact. His ability to convey the human condition through music has made him one of Sweden’s most important composers of the 20th century.
#5 Dag Wirén
Dag Wirén was a Swedish composer known for his neoclassical style, which combined clarity, elegance, and a touch of humor in his music. Born in 1905 in Striberg, Wirén studied composition at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm and later in Paris, where he was influenced by French neoclassicism. His music is characterized by its rhythmic vitality, clear textures, and strong sense of form. One of Wirén’s most famous works is the Serenade for Strings, Op. 11, which has become a staple of the string orchestra repertoire and is celebrated for its light, joyful character.
In addition to his orchestral works, Wirén composed chamber music, piano pieces, and film scores, contributing significantly to Swedish music in the mid-20th century. His approachable style and emphasis on melodic simplicity have made his music enduringly popular, both in Sweden and internationally.
#6 Kurt Atterberg
Kurt Atterberg was a Swedish composer and conductor best known for his symphonies and operas, particularly his “Dollar Symphony,” which won a prestigious international competition. Born in 1887 in Gothenburg, Atterberg initially trained as an engineer while studying music on the side. His compositional style is rooted in late Romanticism, and his music is known for its lush orchestration, strong melodies, and use of Swedish folk elements.
Atterberg’s Symphony No. 6 in C major, which won first prize in the Schubert Centenary Competition sponsored by the Columbia Graphophone Company, earned him international recognition and the nickname “Dollar Symphony” because of the cash prize. In addition to his symphonic work, Atterberg composed operas, ballets, and chamber music, and he also served as a conductor and music administrator. His music, while often traditional in its approach, reflects a deep connection to Swedish cultural heritage and has secured him a prominent place in Sweden’s musical history.
#7 Lars-Erik Larsson
Lars-Erik Larsson was a versatile Swedish composer whose work spanned various genres, including orchestral music, chamber music, choral works, and film scores. Born in 1908 in Åkarp, Larsson studied composition at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm and later in Vienna and Leipzig. His music is characterized by its accessibility, melodic richness, and craftsmanship. One of his most enduring works is the Pastoral Suite, Op. 19, which exemplifies his ability to blend Swedish folk elements with classical forms.
Larsson also made significant contributions to Swedish radio, where he composed a series of educational works, including the popular Music for Orchestra. His Lyric Suite is another well-known work that showcases his lyrical style. Throughout his career, Larsson remained committed to creating music that was both innovative and accessible, making him one of Sweden’s most beloved composers.
#8 Carl Michael Bellman
Carl Michael Bellman was an 18th-century Swedish poet, composer, and troubadour, whose songs and ballads have become deeply ingrained in Swedish culture. Born in 1740 in Stockholm, Bellman is best known for his collections of songs Fredman’s Epistles and Fredman’s Songs, which depict the life and characters of Stockholm’s lower classes with humor, empathy, and wit. His music often features a blend of baroque and folk elements, with lyrics that explore themes of love, drinking, and mortality.
Bellman’s ability to combine poetic storytelling with memorable melodies has made him a national icon, often referred to as Sweden’s greatest poet-composer. Despite his personal struggles, including financial difficulties and health issues, Bellman’s legacy has endured, and his songs remain popular in Sweden to this day. His work continues to influence Swedish music and literature, and he is celebrated as one of the country’s cultural treasures.
#9 Wilhelm Peterson-Berger
Wilhelm Peterson-Berger was a Swedish composer, music critic, and conductor, known for his piano music, symphonies, and operas. Born in 1867 in Ullånger, Peterson-Berger studied at the Stockholm Conservatory and in Dresden, where he developed a style that blended Romanticism with Swedish folk influences. His most famous work is the Frösöblomster (Flowers of Frösö) suite, a set of piano pieces inspired by the landscapes of the island of Frösön in Jämtland, which has become a staple of Swedish piano repertoire.
Peterson-Berger was also a prolific composer of symphonic and vocal music, including the opera Arnljot, which is based on a historical saga and is considered a significant contribution to Swedish opera. In addition to his work as a composer, he was a respected music critic and editor, known for his sharp and often controversial opinions. His music, characterized by its lyricism and connection to Swedish nature and folklore, continues to be celebrated in Sweden.
#10 Ture Rangström
Ture Rangström was a Swedish composer, conductor, and critic, known for his songs, symphonies, and operas that often reflected his deep connection to Swedish literature and culture. Born in 1884 in Stockholm, Rangström was largely self-taught as a composer, though he later studied with Hans Pfitzner in Berlin. His music is characterized by its emotional intensity, rich harmonies, and a strong narrative quality.
Rangström’s song cycles, which set poems by Swedish poets such as Verner von Heidenstam and Erik Axel Karlfeldt, are particularly acclaimed for their expressive depth and ability to capture the essence of the texts. His symphonies, especially the Dithyrambic Symphony and Symphony No. 4 “Invocatio”, are notable for their dramatic structure and vivid orchestration. In addition to his compositional work, Rangström was an influential conductor and music critic, advocating for the development of a distinctly Swedish musical voice. His contributions to Swedish music, particularly in the realm of art song, have left a lasting legacy.
#11 Gösta Nystroem
Gösta Nystroem was a prominent 20th-century Swedish composer known for his symphonies, orchestral works, and vocal music that often drew inspiration from the sea and Swedish landscapes. Born in 1890 in Silvberg, Nystroem initially studied painting before turning to music, studying composition in Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Paris. His music is marked by its lyrical intensity, atmospheric qualities, and use of Nordic themes. Nystroem’s Sinfonia del mare (Symphony of the Sea) is one of his most famous works, reflecting his lifelong fascination with the sea and showcasing his skill in orchestration.
His vocal music, particularly his collaborations with Swedish poet Karin Boye, is also highly regarded, with works like Sånger vid havet (Songs by the Sea) being notable examples. Nystroem’s ability to evoke the natural world through music has made him one of Sweden’s most distinctive composers, and his works continue to be performed regularly in Sweden and internationally.
#12 Anders Hillborg
Anders Hillborg is a contemporary Swedish composer known for his innovative orchestral works, choral music, and collaborations with leading international orchestras and artists. Born in 1954 in Sollentuna, Hillborg studied composition at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm under luminaries such as Gunnar Bucht and Arne Mellnäs. His music is characterized by its exploration of texture, rhythm, and sonority, often creating striking soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional orchestral music.
Hillborg has worked with many leading orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Berlin Philharmonic, and his compositions, such as Cold Heat and Eleven Gates, have received widespread acclaim for their originality and technical brilliance. He has also composed choral works, including Mouyayoum and Bach Materia, which showcase his interest in vocal texture and polyphony. Hillborg’s contributions to contemporary music have made him one of Sweden’s most prominent and internationally recognized composers.
#13 Johan Helmich Roman
Johan Helmich Roman is often referred to as the “Father of Swedish Music” due to his pivotal role in establishing a distinct Swedish musical tradition during the Baroque period. Born in 1694 in Stockholm, Roman studied music in London, where he was influenced by composers such as Handel, before returning to Sweden to become the director of the Royal Swedish Orchestra. His music is characterized by its elegant Baroque style, with a strong emphasis on melody and structure.
Roman’s Drottningholm Music, composed for the wedding of Crown Prince Adolf Frederick and Louisa Ulrika of Prussia, is one of his most famous works and remains a cornerstone of Swedish classical music. In addition to his compositions, Roman was a key figure in developing music education and performance standards in Sweden, helping to elevate the country’s musical culture. His legacy as a composer and educator has had a lasting impact on Swedish music, earning him a revered place in the nation’s history.
#14 Elfrida Andrée
Elfrida Andrée was one of Sweden’s first female composers and conductors, known for her pioneering contributions to Swedish music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in 1841 in Visby, Andrée was a trailblazer in a male-dominated field, becoming the first female cathedral organist in Sweden at Gothenburg Cathedral. Her compositional output includes symphonies, chamber music, choral works, and organ music, with her Symphony No. 1 and Piano Trio in G minor being particularly notable.
Andrée was also a staunch advocate for women’s rights and used her position to promote the role of women in music. Her works, characterized by their Romantic style and melodic richness, reflect her deep commitment to both her art and her beliefs. Andrée’s legacy as a composer, performer, and advocate for gender equality in music has made her an important figure in Swedish cultural history.
#15 Bo Linde
Bo Linde was a Swedish composer known for his lyrical and emotionally expressive music, which often reflects the traditions of late Romanticism and early 20th-century modernism. Born in 1933 in Gävle, Linde studied composition at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm under Lars-Erik Larsson. His music is characterized by its melodic richness, clear structures, and an ability to convey deep emotion through a modern yet accessible idiom.
Linde’s works include symphonies, concertos, chamber music, and songs, with his Piano Concerto No. 1 and Violin Concerto being among his most celebrated compositions. Although his life was tragically cut short at the age of 37, Linde left behind a substantial body of work that has continued to be appreciated for its craftsmanship and expressive power. His music has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, as more audiences and performers have rediscovered his contributions to Swedish classical music.
#16 Fredrik Sixten
Fredrik Sixten is a contemporary Swedish composer known primarily for his contributions to choral music and sacred music. Born in 1962 in Torsby, Sixten has established himself as one of Sweden’s leading composers of church music, with a focus on works for choir and organ. His compositions are characterized by their lyrical beauty, harmonic richness, and deep spiritual content. Sixten’s music often draws on traditional liturgical forms while incorporating elements of modern harmony and rhythm, making his works both timeless and contemporary.
Some of his notable works include Requiem, Magnificat, and Missa brevis. Sixten has also composed operas, including The Holy Spirit Mass and The Prodigal Son, which have been well received in Sweden and internationally. His dedication to choral music and his ability to blend tradition with innovation have made him a significant figure in Swedish contemporary music, particularly in the realm of sacred music.
#17 Ingvar Lidholm
Ingvar Lidholm was a prominent 20th-century Swedish composer known for his modernist approach and his significant contributions to choral music, orchestral works, and opera. Born in 1921 in Jönköping, Lidholm studied composition at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm and later became a central figure in Swedish contemporary music. His music is marked by its bold exploration of form, texture, and dissonance, often pushing the boundaries of traditional tonality.
Lidholm’s choral work Laudi and the orchestral piece Poesis are among his most famous compositions, showcasing his ability to create complex and emotionally powerful music. In addition to his compositional work, Lidholm was an influential teacher and mentor, shaping the careers of many younger Swedish composers. His innovative approach and his commitment to expanding the language of music have earned him a lasting place in Swedish musical history.
#18 Hilding Rosenberg
Hilding Rosenberg is widely regarded as one of the most important Swedish composers of the 20th century, known for his symphonies, operas, and chamber music. Born in 1892 in Bosjökloster, Rosenberg studied in Stockholm and Berlin, where he was influenced by the modernist movements of the time. His early works were rooted in late Romanticism, but he soon developed a more modern, expressionist style that incorporated dissonance and innovative structures.
Rosenberg’s Symphony No. 2 and his opera Isle of Bliss are among his most significant works, demonstrating his mastery of orchestration and dramatic form. In addition to his compositional achievements, Rosenberg was also a respected conductor and teacher, playing a key role in the development of Swedish music in the 20th century. His ability to adapt and innovate within different musical styles has made him a central figure in Swedish classical music, and his works continue to be performed and studied.
#19 Anders Eliasson
Anders Eliasson was a contemporary Swedish composer known for his deeply personal and structurally complex music that often explored themes of existence and spirituality. Born in 1947 in Borlänge, Eliasson studied composition at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, where he developed a unique voice that combined elements of modernism with a deeply introspective approach to form and harmony. His music is characterized by its intricate structures, expressive intensity, and a sense of searching for deeper meaning.
Some of his most notable works include the Symphony No. 1, Sinfonia concertante, and Clarinet Concerto. Eliasson’s music often requires great technical skill from performers, reflecting his belief in the power of music to convey complex and profound ideas. Despite being somewhat of an outsider in the Swedish musical establishment, Eliasson’s work has gained significant recognition, and he is regarded as one of Sweden’s most important contemporary composers.
#20 Erland von Koch
Erland von Koch was a Swedish composer known for his symphonies, film music, and his ability to blend Swedish folk music with modern classical forms. Born in 1910 in Stockholm, von Koch studied at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm and in Germany, where he was influenced by both the Romantic tradition and the emerging modernist trends. His music is marked by its lyrical melodies, clear structures, and an affinity for Swedish folk tunes, which he often incorporated into his compositions.
Von Koch composed six symphonies, numerous concertos, and a wide range of chamber and choral music. His film scores, including music for The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (1961), brought him widespread recognition in Sweden. In addition to his work as a composer, von Koch was an influential educator, teaching at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm for many years. His ability to create music that is both accessible and richly expressive has made him a beloved figure in Swedish music.
#21 Jan Sandström
Jan Sandström is a contemporary Swedish composer known for his innovative and often experimental works for orchestra, choir, and solo instruments. Born in 1954 in Vilhelmina, Sandström studied composition at the Piteå School of Music and the Royal College of Music in Stockholm. His music is characterized by its exploration of sound textures, unconventional structures, and a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional forms.
One of his most famous works is the Motorbike Concerto (1991), a trombone concerto that incorporates the sounds of a motorbike into the orchestral fabric, demonstrating his playful and imaginative approach to composition. Sandström has also composed significant choral works, including Det är en ros utsprungen and Bompabom, which have been widely performed. His ability to blend innovation with accessibility has made him one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Swedish music, and his works continue to be performed both in Sweden and internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is considered the “Father of Swedish Music”?
Johan Helmich Roman is often referred to as the “Father of Swedish Music” due to his pioneering role in establishing a distinct Swedish musical tradition during the Baroque period. His compositions, especially Drottningholm Music, have become central to Sweden’s classical music heritage.
What is Wilhelm Stenhammar best known for in Swedish music?
Wilhelm Stenhammar is best known for his symphonies, piano concertos, and choral works that reflect the late-Romantic tradition. His influence as both a composer and conductor has made him one of the most important figures in Swedish classical music.
Which Swedish composer won international recognition with the “Dollar Symphony”?
Kurt Atterberg gained international recognition with his Symphony No. 6 in C major, also known as the “Dollar Symphony,” which won first prize in the Schubert Centenary Competition. This work remains one of his most celebrated compositions.
How did Hugo Alfvén contribute to the national identity of Swedish music?
Hugo Alfvén contributed to Swedish national identity through his orchestral works, particularly the Swedish Rhapsody No. 1 (Midsommarvaka), which evokes Swedish landscapes and folk traditions. His music has become emblematic of Swedish cultural heritage.
