Edvin Kallstenius

Edvin Kallstenius, born in Filipstad, Sweden, on August 29, 1881, was a versatile and influential figure in the world of music. Initially pursuing science at Lund University, he ultimately dedicated his life to music, studying in Leipzig and going on to become a renowned composer, arranger, and librarian. Kallstenius is perhaps best known for his arrangement of the traditional folk tune "Du gamla, Du fria," which has become the de facto national anthem of Sweden. His work is characterized by a unique and original style, reflecting his belief that "musical religion is called harmonics – everything else is secondary." With a career spanning decades, Kallstenius left an indelible mark on Swedish music, and his compositions continue to captivate audiences today.