Midsommarvaka (Swedish rhapsody)

Although it is only the first of three similarly named works, it is often simply called the "Swedish Rhapsody".The Rhapsody was written in 1903. It is the best-known piece by Alfvén, and also one of the best-known pieces of music in Sweden. The score, published around 1906, describes it as a fantasy on popular Swedish folk melodies depicting the moods evoked by an old-time Swedish Midsummer wake; the dancing and games around the May-pole through the magic night of Midsummer Eve. One theme is the composer's own invention, while other themes are borrowed from the folk-music of Sweden and elaborated by the composer. The Rhapsody was adapted as a ballet, La Nuit de St Jean, choreographed by Jean Börlin.