Messiah and the cultural canon

A cultural canon for Sweden

Sweden is today characterized by a great division regarding trust, security, social cohesion and community. In this situation, there is a need to clarify and make accessible the cultural heritage that has shaped the country, as a common frame of reference for both new and established citizens. By highlighting works and phenomena that have had lasting significance for Swedish culture and social development – ​​in both artistic and social fields – the cultural canon aims to promote civic education that can strengthen community and broaden understanding of Sweden's historical roots. (Quote from the Swedish government website)

In the autumn of 2025, the Swedish government presented 100 Swedish works that will be included in a cultural canon. Ten of these works are music. What kind of works are they? How do they sound? Who are the people behind the works? And do the works have any echo in Sweden today? Mattias Lundberg, professor of musicology, participates in SVT's reportage series "Messiah and the Cultural Canon" where he talks about these works. The program is hosted by Messiah Hallberg.