Kören

The story behind the pattern "Kören"

Choral singing is a popular pastime throughout the year. On Walpurgis Night, almost every choir in the country is booked to traditionally sing in the arrival of spring. The songs, mostly from the early 20th century, have been preserved through generations, especially through student celebrations.

Summer brings more singing traditions, such as the beloved TV program "Allsång på Skansen," which gathers the entire Swedish population. At midsummer, singing once again takes place in traditional song games and drinking songs. When December arrives, Lucia celebrations take over. The Lucia choirs are a cherished part of Christmas traditions and spread atmosphere and warmth during the darkest time of the year.

Choral singing has been deeply rooted in Swedish culture for over a century, with an estimated 600,000 people participating in different types of choirs. The "Swedish choral miracle" is remarkably large for a small country. One explanation lies in the strong popular movements that emerged in Sweden during the 19th century. The temperance movement, the Christian revival movement, and later the labor movement all used choirs as a powerful tool to spread ideas and build community.

Today, choral singing is widespread; it doesn't matter whether you are an amateur or a professional – there is a choir for everyone. You can choose one that fits your level, interests, musical taste, and context: male choirs, female choirs, school choirs, corporate choirs, church choirs, preschool choirs, student choirs, and "everyone-can-sing" choirs. Choir singing has become an activity for anyone seeking joy, community, and a chance to express themselves through music.

Designer Åse Öjbro, founder of Öjbro Vantfabrik, has created this pattern capturing the universal joy of singing through rows of choristers on a base of traditional folk-inspired decoration.

- In the Kören pattern, I want to portray the sense of community that so many singers experience when they sing together. Choir singing is truly a well-being activity. My mother, Kerstin, sang in several choirs, and I have seen firsthand how she sings with her whole heart when standing side by side with her choir friends. I am proud that my mother has been a chorister who has spread joy to many. Therefore, I dedicated this pattern to her – and to all wonderful choir singers.