CARL NIELSEN

Denmark is not a country that you would automatically associate with classical composers. Germany, Italy, France, even Norway, but not Denmark.

The exception that "proves" the rule is Carl Nielsen, who was born in 1865 and died in 1931. Abroad, he is known for his symphonies and concertos; at home, he is most liked for the melodies he composed for hymns, folktales and songs, many of which have become part of the national heritage.

This year is the 150th anniversary of his birth. As part of the celebrations I went last night to a lecture/concert in the local church, mixing details of his life with extracts from his music. I didn't recognise any of the serious stuff, though I did know a lot of the simpler tunes.

Walter Blotscher