Artists like Bach and Beethoven erected churches and temples on the heights. I only wanted… to build dwellings for men in which they might feel happy and at home.

Meaning of the quote

The quote suggests that while famous composers like Bach and Beethoven created grand, impressive musical works, Grieg wanted to make music that would make people feel comfortable and at home. Rather than building big, fancy "churches and temples," Grieg preferred to create "dwellings" or pieces that would make listeners feel happy and welcome.

About Edvard Grieg

Edvard Grieg was a renowned Norwegian composer and pianist who helped develop a national identity for Norwegian music through his use of folk music in his compositions. He is celebrated in his hometown of Bergen, where numerous cultural entities bear his name, and his legacy is preserved at the Edvard Grieg Museum in his former home, Troldhaugen.

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