Johan Helmich Roman

Swedish Baroque Composer and Musician

Johan Helmich Roman (1694–1758) is often referred to as the "Father of Swedish Music" due to his significant influence on the musical landscape of Sweden during the 18th century. He was a composer, violinist, and conductor who brought many of the stylistic elements of late Baroque music to Sweden after studying and working abroad in places like London, where he was influenced by composers such as Handel. Roman's output includes a wide range of compositions, such as orchestral suites, sonatas for various instruments, and vocal works. His most famous piece is probably the "Drottningholm Music," a suite of music composed for the royal court at Drottningholm Palace. Roman's work laid the foundation for future Swedish composers and helped integrate more advanced European musical traditions into Swedish culture.