"Song of Norway," originally a 1944 operetta and later a 1970 film, offers a fictionalized portrayal of the early life and musical aspirations of the renowned Norwegian composer, Edvard Grieg. The narrative
is set in various European locations, including Grieg's homeland of Norway (specifically Troldhaugen and Bergen), as well as Copenhagen and Rome, primarily in the period after 1860. The story centers on Grieg and his two childhood friends, Nina Hagerup and Rikard Nordraak, as they navigate their dreams and challenges in the world of music.
Aspirations and Early Struggles
The core of the story revolves around Edvard Grieg's fervent desire to become a great composer and his ambition to develop an authentic Norwegian national music. These dreams are not his alone; they are shared by his close friend Rikard Nordraak and his sweetheart, Nina. The operetta and film depict Grieg's initial struggles to gain recognition for his music, particularly in Norway and Denmark, where there was not yet a strong demand for nationalist music based on Norwegian lyrical songs. This period, the 1860s, was a time when other composers like Smetana, Dvorak, and Liszt were beginning to establish rich traditions of romantic music using their homelands' folk tunes, a path Grieg sought to emulate for Norway.
An early benefactor in Grieg's journey is the wealthy Therese Berg, an old flame who helps subsidize a series of concerts for him. This support is crucial as Grieg attempts to establish himself. The narrative also highlights the role of Nina, who, after Grieg applies for a travel grant, befriends a local pianist, Mr. Krogstad. Krogstad writes a letter to the influential Hungarian composer and pianist Franz Liszt on Grieg's behalf, a pivotal moment that helps Grieg secure the grant and embark on a journey to Rome.
European Encounters and Creative Crossroads
Upon arriving in Rome, Grieg's journey takes him to significant encounters. He meets the celebrated Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen and, crucially, Franz Liszt. During his time in Rome, Grieg holds numerous concerts and debuts his works, including the composition of his famous piano concerto in A minor. A notable development in the story is Ibsen's request for Grieg to compose music for his play, "Peer Gynt," a collaboration that would become one of Grieg's most iconic contributions to classical music.
However, Grieg's time in Italy is also marked by a period where he is lured by the great prima donna Louisa Giovanni. Despite the glitter and excitement of this new environment, Grieg finds he cannot create effectively. This realization prompts his return to Norway and his beloved Nina, where he believes he can truly write his music. The film concludes with Grieg's return home to Nina, ready to continue his career in his native land.
Historical Liberties and Thematic Focus
One significant creative liberty taken in "Song of Norway" concerns Rikard Nordraak. While the film correctly notes that Nordraak composed the Norwegian national anthem, "Ja, vi elsker dette landet," the operetta portrayed him as a poet rather than a composer. This alteration was made to avoid confusion, as the creators believed "two composers would be confusing" for the audience. The story also depicts Nordraak's death while Grieg is away in Rome, a detail that adds emotional weight to Grieg's journey and his commitment to Nordraak's dream of a national Norwegian music. The narrative emphasizes Grieg's dedication to his country's musical identity, portraying him as a figure who, despite temptations and struggles, ultimately finds his true artistic voice by embracing his Norwegian roots and the love of his life, Nina.
