“To be a Norwegian artist is a wonderful gift of fate that I would not trade for anything in the world”, said Edvard Grieg. Each of the composer’s works has become a unique musical postcard from Norway. His Suite Fra Holbergs tid (Holberg Suite), Op. 40, also known as the Suite in the Old Style, radiating a glowingly dignified and poetic mood, is no exception.

The work was composed in 1884 and dedicated to the 200th birth anniversary of the composer’s compatriot, the playwright and philosopher Ludwig Holberg (1684–1754). The five-movement opus is reminiscent of the stylisation of the orchestral suites that flourished in the 18th century. The suite opens with a lively, energetic Praeludium, followed by a majestic and gentle Sarabande. The lyrical mood is succeeded by the picturesque and contrapuntal Gavotte. The fourth movement, Air, is an elegiac song that highlights the composer’s particular lyricism. The suite closes with the joyful, boisterous Rigaudon.

The masterpiece by the Norwegian classic is performed by the Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra, welcoming its 62nd season of concerts.