Grieg, Nina (1845–1935)

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Grieg, Nina (1845–1935)

Norwegian singer who was best known for performances of her husband's compositions. Born Nina Hagerup on November 24, 1845, in Bergen, Norway; died on December 9, 1935, in Copenhagen; daughter of Herman Hagerup and Madame Werligh (a Danish actress); studied with Carl Helsted; married Edvard Grieg (the composer), on June 11, 1867 (died 1907).

Nina Grieg was born Nina Hagerup on November 24, 1845, in Bergen, Norway, the daughter of Herman Hagerup and Madame Werligh , a Danish actress. When Nina was eight, the family moved to Denmark and settled near Elsinore where she studied with Carl Helsted. Her vocal power was slight, but her artistry compensated for this defect.

Nina married her cousin, Edvard Grieg, on June 11, 1867 (her father and Edvard's mother were brother and sister). In highly successful joint concerts the couple gave throughout Europe, she performed her husband's work many times and became the most sensitive interpreter of his songs. Her talented singing inspired the composer Delius to dedicate two sets of songs to her in 1888 and 1890.

John Haag , Athens, Georgia

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Grieg, Nina (1845–1935)

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