The Best Swedish Folk Music to Listen to Instrumentally

Looking for some great Swedish folk music to listen to instrumentally? Here are some of our top picks!

Swedish folk music – what is it and where does it come from?

Swedish folk music is the music of the Swedish people. It has its roots in the music of the Viking Age and was further developed during the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Baroque eras. In modern times, it has been influenced by a variety of genres, including classical, jazz, rock and pop.

Swedish folk music is typically characterised by its use of fiddles, accordions and nyckelharpas (a traditional Swedish stringed instrument). It often features fast tempo dances such as polskas and schottisches, as well as slower waltzes and ballads. The lyrics of Swedish folk songs often tell stories of love, nature or historic events.

If you’re interested in exploring Swedish folk music further, we’ve put together a list of some of the best instrumental tracks for you to enjoy.

The best Swedish folk music to listen to instrumentally – a guide

There are many different types of music enjoyed by people all over the world, but few are as timeless and beautiful as Swedish folk music. This traditional genre of music is perfect for listening to while you relax or work, and it can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

If you’re looking for some great Swedish folk music to listen to instrumentally, then look no further – we’ve compiled a list of some of the best tracks for you to enjoy. From upbeat and lively tunes to more mellow and reflective pieces, there’s something for everyone on this list.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the best Swedish folk music has to offer…

1. ‘Värmland’s Riddle’ by Marklund & Ståhl
2. ‘Silver Wedding’ by Hedningarna
3. ‘The Seagull’ by Garmarna
4. ‘Härjedalen Wedding Tune’ by Väsen
5. ‘Leksand Tunes’ by Vilhelm Moberg
6. ‘Black Anemone Waltz’ by Ann-Sofi Sidenius
7. ‘Brudmarsch från Öland’ by Frida Hyvönen
8. ‘Sommarpsalm” by Trad 9. ‘Nordavind’ 10. ‘ Frog Dance’ 11.’ midsummer eve bonfire’

The history of Swedish folk music

Swedish folk music has been around for centuries, with roots in the Renaissance and Baroque eras. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Swedish folk music began to take on a more modern sound, influenced by other European countries and North America. By the 20th century, Swedish folk music had developed into a distinct genre, with its own traditions and instruments.

Swedish folk music is typically characterised by its use of traditional instruments, such as the fiddle, nyckelharpa (a type of keyed fiddle), and accordion. It often features simple melodies and harmonies, as well as syncopated rhythms. The lyrics of Swedish folk songs often reflect the country’s rural heritage and the daily lives of its people.

There are many different regional styles of Swedish folk music, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular regions include Dalarna (known for its lively polkas), Värmland (known for its so-called “stomping” dances), Norrbotten (with its distinctly Finnish-sounding melodies), and Skåne (with its more melancholic tunes).

The different genres of Swedish folk music

Swedish folk music is traditionally divided into a number of different genres. The most common are the following:

– Polska: A type of dance music that is oftenfast-paced and lively. Polska music is often played on the fiddle, accordion, or clarinet.
– Spelmanslag: This type of folk music is typically performed by ensembles of skilled musicians. It often features complex arrangements and can be quite virtuosic.
– Värmländsk musik: This genre originates from the province of Värmland in central Sweden. It is typically characterized by its use of the five-stringed fiddle, or viola d’amore.
– Dalecarlian music: This style of folk music comes from the province of Dalarna in central Sweden. It is one of the most well-known and iconic genres of Swedish folk music, and is often characterized by its use of the Nyckelharpa (a traditional Swedish stringed instrument).

These are just some of the most common genres of Swedish folk music. There are many other subgenres and regional styles that add to the richness and diversity of this musical tradition.

The instruments used in Swedish folk music

The music of Sweden shares many features with other North Germanic countries, including harmony and melody conforming largely to the tonal system, and a large number of traditional instruments. For example, the fiddle, accordion and nyckelharpa are typical Swedish folk instruments.

Vocal music in Sweden is often divided into two main streams: folkmusik (traditional Swedish folk music) and sångstilar (vocal styles), which encompasses both art music and more popular traditions. Swedish folkmusik tradition is primarily vocal, though it often includes instrumental dance music. This vocal tradition undergoes continuous development, sometimes slow in pace but always with significant impact.

The most common instruments used in Swedish folkmusik include:

-Fiddle
-Accordion
-Nyckelharpa
-Guitar
-Bouzouki

The best Swedish folk music albums to listen to

There are many different types of Swedish folk music, ranging from the traditional music of the Sami people to the more modern instrumental music that is commonly heard today. Swedish folk music has been influenced by a variety of different cultures over the years, and this is reflected in the wide range of styles that can be found within it. If you’re looking for some great Swedish folk music to listen to, check out these five albums.

The top Swedish folk music artists to listen to

There are many different types of Swedish folk music, which can often be divided into two main categories: traditional and modern. Traditional Swedish folk music includes beautiful ballads and lyrical singing, while modern Swedish folk music is often more upbeat and includes elements of pop and rock.

Instrumental Swedish folk music is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the beauty of this unique musical style. Here are some of the top Swedish folk music artists to listen to instrumentally:

1. Bengt Elfström – Bengt Elfström is a renowned Swedish fiddler who has won numerous awards for his traditional recordings. His music is based on the Stockholm fiddle tradition, and he often performs with other traditional musicians.

2. Mats Edén – Mats Edén is a highly respected mandolinist who has performed with some of the biggest names in Swedish folk music. He has released several solo albums, as well as collaborated with other artists on numerous occasions.

3. Ale Möller – Ale Möller is a multi-instrumentalist who plays a variety of traditional Swedish instruments, including the nyckelharpa, fiddle, and accordion. He has won several Grammy Awards for his work, and his music has been featured in films and TV shows.

4. Vasen – Vasen is a trio consisting of three highly skilled musicians who play the nyckelharpa, fiddle, and cello. Their music is based on both traditional Swedish tunes and original compositions, and they have won numerous awards for their recordings.

5. Johan Hedin – Johan Hedin is a talented guitarist who specializes in playing Swedish folk music. He has released several solo albums, as well as collaborating with other artists on various occasions.

Swedish folk music festivals to check out

If you’re looking for an authentic Swedish folk music experience, you can’t go wrong with one of these festivals.

1. Gränslöst Folk Fest: This festival takes place in the town of Härjedalen, right on the border between Sweden and Norway. Featuring musicians from both countries, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some traditional Swedish folk music.

2. Uppsala Vårrus: Held in early spring, this festival is the perfect way to get out of the city and enjoy some fresh air while listening to some great music. With over 30 bands playing everything from traditional folk music to more modern genres, there’s something for everyone at Uppsala Vårrus.

3. Bollnäs Folk Fest: Bollnäs is a small town in the heart of Sweden, and its folk festival is one of the most intimate and authentic you’ll find. With only a few hundred people in attendance, it’s the perfect place to really get to know the music and the people who love it.

4. Orsa Grönklitt Folk Music Festival: Orsa Grönklitt is one of Sweden’s most popular ski resorts, and in addition to great skiing, it also boasts an excellent folk music festival. With over 20 different bands playing everything from traditional Swedish folk songs to more modern genres, there’s something for everyone at Orsa Grönklitt Folk Music Festival.

How to get started with learning Swedish folk music

Swedish folk music is a genre of music that is typically characterized by its down-to-earth, rustic sound. It often features simple, repetitive melodies played on traditional instruments like the fiddle, accordion, and flute. If you’re interested in learning more about Swedish folk music, here are a few tips to get you started.

First, familiarize yourself with some of the most popular Swedish folk songs. A good place to start is with the song “Vintern RASAR,” which is a well-known tune among Swedish folk fans. Once you know a few songs, you can begin to learn about the different regional styles of Swedish folk music. The three main areas where Swedish folk music originates are Skåne (in southern Sweden), Värmland (in central Sweden), and Gotland (in the Baltic Sea). Each region has its own distinct style of music, so it’s worth taking some time to explore the different sounds.

If you’re interested in learning to play an instrument, there are a few traditional options that are commonly used in Swedish folk music. The fiddle is perhaps the most iconic instrument associated with this genre, but others include the accordion, flute, and mandolin. You can often find lessons for these instruments online or at your local music store.

Finally, attending a live performance is one of the best ways to appreciate Swedish folk music. There are many festivals and events dedicated to this genre throughout Sweden, so there’s likely one happening near you. Alternatively, you can also watch videos of live performances online.

Why Swedish folk music is worth listening to

Swedish folk music is the traditional music of Sweden. It has been preserved and transmitted through the generations by oral tradition. The instruments used include fiddles, accordions, nyckelharpas, flutes, and trumpets. The music consists of both vocal and instrumental pieces. The songs are normally in Swedish, but some are in other Scandinavian languages such as Finnish and Sami.

The best Swedish folk music is worth listening to for its beauty, simplicity, and story-telling ability. There is something special about this type of music that can touch the soul and transport the listener to another time and place.