Grieg07. The humanist - the composer - the sampler

Dear Ambassador

The close interplay between politics and art has always played an important role in shaping culture, in creating national identity, and in international interaction. As the composer Edvard Grieg (1843–1907) put it, “… all true art grows out of that which is distinctively human”. National cultures are highly dependent on inputs from abroad and on international cultural cooperation, which is an important dimension of Norwegian foreign policy.

This year – through the project Grieg07 – Norway will be celebrating the life, music and ideas of Edvard Grieg, and renewing his heritage through a number of events at home and abroad.

As part of the centenary celebrations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has produced a special set of CDs and a DVD showcasing music by our famous composer and some of those who were – and are – inspired by him. I am pleased to enclose a complimentary copy of the set, which contains a selection of recent recordings and new material recorded especially for this collection.

If you would like more information about the GRIEG07 programme, please do not hesitate to contact the Ministry’s Section for Global Cultural Cooperation. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continuing efforts in public diplomacy and cultural exchange.

Yours sincerely
Jonas Gahr Støre

• The Grieg celebration web site