Folk music of Sweden on May 5

The American Swedish Institute Spelmanslag will perform in concert on Saturday, May 5, at 7:30 p.m. at The Phipps Center for the Arts.

The Spelmanslag is the fiddling group of the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis. The ensemble plays the traditional folk music of Sweden, primarily from the region of Dalarna. Their repertoire includes traditional dance tunes such as waltzes, schottisches, and polskas.

The music they play represents a living tradition that started hundreds of years ago in Sweden. The melodies were made by women as they sang to their cattle in the summer pastures, by miners and loggers as they marched to and from their work, and by countless common people who enjoyed singing and dancing with family and friends. The music and rhythms lifted their spirits as they experienced joys and sorrows together. Sweden’s tradition of fiddle music goes back hundreds of years as well. Swedes say they have a tune for every occasion, from weddings, baptisms, and funerals to dances, feasts, and holidays.

Tickets are $22 for adults and $15 for all students with a current ID. Reservations may be made by contacting The Phipps Center ticket office at (715) 386-8409 or online at www.ThePhipps.org.

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