The wonderful melody of Våren (Last Spring) originally appeared as one of a set of 12 songs published by Grieg in his op 33 of 1880. He subsequently made an arrangement for string orchestra (op 34). This is a reduction I have created for string quartet. It fits well for a smaller group and has been a favourite with the players of my own quartet. The melody is reflective and haunting, fitting for the original words where the poet describes the beauty of the Norwegian countryside in spring, appearing after the snow of winter - he thinks he might be seeing it for the last time. The music was run during the closing credits of the TV series "Mama" broadcast in the USA in the 1950s. This quartet arrangement is suitable for all occasions and works well where a change of pace and something more reflective is required in the programme.