Göteborgs Konserthus Lunch concert: Bach to the Roots

In the hands of fiddler Lisa Rydberg and organist Gunnar Idenstam, a unique sound world unfolds as the mighty Concert Hall organ meets Swedish folk music. With the classical tradition as a foundation and roots deep in Swedish folk music, Father Bach is invited to dance – side by side with the Swedish polska. Here, shared elements in melodic lines, harmonic progressions, phrasing, ornamentation and rhythmic drive come together to create a groove where styles meet.

During the Baroque period, there was no clear division between “classical” music and “folk” music as we understand it today. Instead, a rich tradition of dance and music flourished, where some pieces were written down while others were passed on orally. In the 18th century, it was also not uncommon for Swedish church organists to play dance music alongside local folk musicians at weddings and other celebrations.

It is a tantalising thought that these musicians – often with roots in other countries and accustomed to notated music – may at times have shared dances such as the minuet, bourrée or courante with Swedish folk musicians. Perhaps even music that bore traces of Johann Sebastian Bach.

From this idea emerges a musical space where imagination can move freely: Bach and the Swedish folk musicians – what if they had actually met?

Now is the time.

The duo has been touring Europe for 20 years with appearances in venues so different like Bachbiennale Leipzig and outdoor scenes in folk music festivals.

The lunch concert is part of the Gothenburg International Organ Festival, taking place 7-18 October.