Norwegian dance nr. 2

Edvard Grieg ranks among the most significant representatives of nineteenth-century musical nationalism. His Norwegian Dances, Op. 35, are deeply rooted in the folk music of his homeland and reflect Norway's awakening national consciousness. The second of the four dances is considered the best-known and most beloved of the set: a captivating piece of sparkling vitality that captures the spirit of Norwegian dance music through characteristic syncopations, rhythmic energy, and memorable melodic lines.

In terms of sound, the work moves within Grieg's characteristic blend of Romantic harmony and modal inflections, lending the piece an unmistakable Nordic coloring. The orchestral arrangement — made by Hans Sitt (1850–1922), a versatile composer and pedagogue of the late Romantic era — unfolds the music, originally written for piano four hands, in full symphonic splendor.

The present edition has been newly edited by Boris Hellmers, providing a reliable basis for practical performance. The Norwegian Dance No. 2 has remained to this day a rewarding and audience-friendly repertoire piece, impressively demonstrating Grieg's talent for concise, characterful miniatures.