Vasa Drängar

Singing At Swedish Crawfish Parties: A Harmonious Feast for the Senses

Welcome to our blog, where we dive into the unique and delightful world of Singing At Swedish Crawfish Parties. Originating from the charming Scandinavian country of Sweden, these festive gatherings are filled with the lively sounds of music, the tantalizing aroma of crawfish, and the joyous melodies that accompany the celebration. In this article, we will explore the cultural traditions, culinary delights, and harmonious singing that make Swedish Crawfish parties an unforgettable experience. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind this cherished Swedish tradition and discover how music and gastronomy intertwine in perfect harmony.

Swedish Crawfish parties, or “Kräftskiva” in Swedish, are a beloved summer tradition that brings friends, family, and communities together. These lively celebrations take place during the peak crawfish season, usually in August, and are marked by their festive ambiance, delicious food, and, of course, the spirited singing that accompanies the gathering.

At the heart of every Swedish Crawfish party is the mouthwatering centerpiece, crawfish. These small, freshwater crustaceans are a Swedish delicacy and are traditionally boiled in a flavorful broth infused with dill, salt, and other aromatic herbs. Accompanied by buttery bread, tangy Västerbotten cheese, and an assortment of pickled herring, Swedish Crawfish parties offer a tantalizing array of flavors that complement the lively atmosphere.

One of the defining elements of Swedish Crawfish parties is the harmonious singing that fills the air. Traditional Swedish songs, known as “snapsvisor,” are sung during the festivities. These songs range from cheerful and humorous tunes to heartfelt melodies that evoke a sense of nostalgia and unity. As the evening progresses and the spirits flow, guests join in singing these traditional songs, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere.

And if you are fortunate enough to attend a Kräftskiva where the Atlanta based Swedish men’s choir “Vasa Drängar” is present, you will also be sure to hear some of these songs performed in perfect four part harmony. A memorable experience to say the least.

If you’re inspired to host your own Swedish Crawfish party, here are a few tips to ensure an authentic and harmonious experience:

  1. Create a Festive Atmosphere: Decorate your venue with blue and yellow, the colors of the Swedish flag, and incorporate traditional Swedish elements such as lanterns, wildflowers, and rustic table settings to capture the essence of the celebration.
  2. Serve a Sumptuous Feast: Offer a plentiful selection of crawfish, accompanied by traditional Swedish side dishes like Västerbotten cheese, crispbread, sour cream, and chives. Don’t forget to provide plenty of snaps, or aquavit, to toast with and enhance the singing experience.
  3. Learn the Snapsvisor: Familiarize yourself with a collection of traditional Swedish snapsvisor and encourage guests to join in the singing. Create song books or print out lyric sheets to help everyone participate and embrace the spirited singing tradition.

Swedish Crawfish parties blend the joy of music, the delight of gastronomy, and the warmth of community into a harmonious celebration. Through lively singing, delectable crawfish, and an authentic atmosphere, these gatherings capture the essence of Swedish culture and tradition. So, gather your friends, prepare a feast of crawfish, and let the melodies fill the air as you create unforgettable memories at your own Swedish Crawfish party. Embrace the spirit of togetherness and let the harmonious singing and gastronomic delights transport you to the heart of Sweden’s vibrant and joyful culture. Skål!

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För Att Mänskan Skall

Deeply rooted in Swedish cultural heritage, the Snaps Song tradition holds a special place in celebratory gatherings. Almost always they are based on very familiar traditional melodies or, in this case, on a children’s song.

Bä, Bä Vita Lamm, which translates to Baa, Baa white lamb, is known by every swede. In the snaps song version the melody remains the same but the words are changed. Sometimes there is a completely new text, but very often the new text rhymes with the original and has several common elements or phrases, but ends up being a humorous travesty of the original.

At parties the song would usually be printed up on song sheets and sung in unison, but when it is covered by an organized choir, such as the Atlanta choir Vasa Drängar, there is often a very elaborate arrangement with multiple harmonies. In men’s choirs it would typically be sung in four harmonies, but certain notes may have as many as six or seven parts.

The Swedish text is below with translation next to it.

För att mänskan skall (In order for people to)
trivas på vår jord, (enjoy themselves on our planet)
Fordras att hon har (It is required she has)
på sitt smörgåsbord: (on her smörgåsbord)
en stor stor sup åt far (A big, big shot for dad)
en liten sup åt mor (a smaller shot for mom)
och två små droppar (And two small drops)
åt lille, lille bror. (for little brother)

Click below for an audio sample of “För att mänskan skall” which is representative of one of many styles of music performed by Vasa Drängar

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Exploring the Neuroscience Behind Singing

Singing has long been recognized as a source of joy and emotional release. It brings people together, uplifts spirits, and creates a sense of unity. But did you know that there is scientific evidence supporting the positive effects of singing on our well-being? In this article, we will explore the neuroscience of singing and how it can reduce stress, anxiety, and strengthen human connections.

The Evolutionary Reward of Group Singing:
Throughout history, singing in groups has been a part of tribal traditions. Recent research has revealed that group singing triggers the release of serotonin and oxytocin, known as the bonding hormone, in our brains. This communal release fosters a sense of connection and synchronizes our heartbeats. Singing together has proven to incentivize community over individualism, leading to stronger bonds and increased chances of survival.

The Calming and Energizing Effects of Singing:
Scientists have been studying the effects of singing on our well-being for years. Numerous studies have shown that singing releases endorphins and oxytocin, which relieve anxiety, reduce stress, and promote feelings of trust and bonding. Singing regularly can also lead to cumulative benefits, including reduced levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.

The Power of Group Singing:
Group singing not only brings happiness but deeply connects people. It allows individuals to tap into their right brain, responsible for intuition, imagination, and creativity. In a world filled with constant information processing and analysis, nurturing these creative functions becomes crucial. Singing together in a group setting synchronizes heartbeats and creates a unified experience, fostering a sense of unity and connection among participants.

Anyone Can Sing:
Contrary to popular belief, singing is not reserved for only the elite or highly trained. Group singing can be satisfying and therapeutic, even for those with a mediocre vocal quality. Tania de Jong, singer and founder of Creativity Australia, has harnessed the power of group singing to lift every member up, regardless of their singing ability. Singing connects us to the right side of our brain, which opens a world of possibilities and nurtures the attributes that make us uniquely human.

The Accessibility of Singing:
Singing is accessible to everyone. We all have a voice, and regardless of past judgments or self-perceived skill, singing can bring immense joy and well-being. It is a form of self-expression that allows us to connect with our emotions and the world around us. Singing can be practiced anywhere, anytime, and the benefits are not limited to a specific group or setting.

The neuroscience of singing provides compelling evidence for the therapeutic benefits of singing, particularly when done in a group. Singing has the power to reduce stress, anxiety, and foster human connection. It is a universal language that brings people together and nurtures our creative and emotional well-being. So, regardless of your perceived skill, let your voice be heard and experience the transformative effects of singing.

If you are in the Atlanta area join Vasa Drängar now!

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Kvarten – The Beautiful Fourth

Welcome to the blog of Vasa Drängar, the Atlanta based men’s choir. Today we are covering the fourth installment in the series of Swedish Schnapps songs or snapsvisor as it is called in Swedish.

Originally people supposedly had first a whole shot, “Helan”, and then second shot was half a shot, “Halvan”.

Over time the tradition has changed to mean something a little bit different. The first schnapps is still called “Helan”, the whole, but in now it is simply the first shot of the evening or perhaps the day if this is a holiday party and we gat started earlier. The second Schnapps is call “Halvan” or the half, but again in this context it means the second drink.

For some people the two drinks might mean the end of the drinking for this particular occasion, but for others that are extra thirsty, the singing and the drinking continues. The third drink is called “Tersen” which is probably based on the music term meaning a third or in this case the third drink.

Each of these drinks of course have its own designated drinking song, or schnapps song, and many of these sequential drinks have more than one song named in their honor.

Which brings us today to the fourth drink “Kvarten”, which means quarter and it happened to be such a beautiful melody that it got the name “Vackra Kvarten” of course meaning the beautiful fourth.

A common theme in most of these songs is that from the very beginning it is made very clear that if you don’t drink the first one, you can’t have the second one. Similarly, you are not allowed to drink the third one until you had the second one and so on. Irrefutable logic at its best.

What is typically allowed, however, is to sip your drinks very carefully so that your first schnapps lasts for several songs. That way you can keep singing and participating even if the number of songs reach into the twenties.

Here is a sample of Vackra Kvarten. True to tradition it spells out that he who does not take the fourth cannot have the fifth either.

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Exploring the Magic of A Cappella Music

Welcome to our blog post, where we embark on a melodic journey into the captivating world of a cappella music. A cappella, derived from the Italian phrase “in the style of the chapel,” is a unique genre that showcases the power and beauty of unaccompanied vocal harmony. In this article, we delve into the essence of a cappella music, exploring its history, techniques, and the joy it brings to both performers and listeners. Join us as we uncover the magic of a cappella and celebrate the art of vocal harmony.

The Definition and Origin of A Cappella

A cappella music refers to vocal music performed without instrumental accompaniment. It emphasizes the pure beauty of the human voice and the intricate interplay of harmonies created solely through vocal techniques. The term “a cappella” traces its roots to the Renaissance era when music composed for religious settings, specifically for chapels, was performed without instruments.

The Intricate Art of A Cappella Harmony

  1. Vocal Techniques: A cappella singers utilize a variety of vocal techniques to create intricate harmonies and mimic the sound of instruments. These techniques include blending voices, precise pitch control, vocal percussion (beatboxing for example), and vocal improvisation.
  2. Harmony and Arrangements: A cappella music features multiple vocal parts, which for a mixed choir includes soprano, alto, tenor, and bass, and for men’s choirs, like Vasa Drängar, includes tenor 1, tenor 2, bass 1, and bass 2. These parts combine to create rich, layered harmonies that convey depth and emotion. Arrangements range from traditional choral compositions to contemporary pop songs adapted for a cappella performance.

The Evolution of A Cappella

  1. Historical Significance: A cappella music has deep roots in religious and folk traditions, with examples found across various cultures throughout history. It was commonly practiced in sacred settings, with choirs and vocal groups performing religious chants, motets, and madrigals.
  2. Modern Popularity: A cappella experienced a resurgence in the 20th century, expanding beyond its traditional confines. Artists and vocal groups like The King’s Singers, The Manhattan Transfer, and more recently Pentatonix helped popularize a cappella through their innovative arrangements and captivating performances.

The Joy of A Cappella Performance

  1. Community and Connection: A cappella singing fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie. Performing as a group requires deep trust and cooperation, creating lasting bonds among singers and promoting teamwork and unity.
  2. Creativity and Artistry: A cappella allows for artistic expression and creativity, as singers explore unique arrangements, vocal improvisation, and rhythmic vocal percussion. This freedom allows performers to push boundaries and create truly innovative and captivating musical experiences.

A Cappella Across Genres

A cappella music has transcended traditional boundaries, permeating various genres and captivating audiences worldwide. From classical choral music to pop, jazz, gospel, and even contemporary adaptations of electronic music, a cappella demonstrates its versatility and adaptability.

A cappella music is a captivating genre that celebrates the power and beauty of the human voice. It embodies the essence of vocal harmony and showcases the limitless creativity and artistic expression possible without instrumental accompaniment. Whether performed in a classical choral setting or as contemporary adaptations of popular songs, a cappella music enchants listeners and creates a profound connection through its melodic tapestry. So, let the harmonies resonate, the voices intertwine, and the joy of a cappella music fill your heart. Immerse yourself in this magical world of unaccompanied vocal harmony

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Tersen – The Third Schnapps

At a typical Swedish party there will be plenty of singing. Often in unison, but very often with some added harmonies if there are some qualified singers present. The most common type of song is going to be a schnapps song, but there are many other short humorous songs that people sing.

True to tradition though, if there is drinking going on, it can only happen after an appropriate song. There can be any number of songs dedicated to schnapps, but if they get as far as the third one, it is appropriate to sing the song “Tersen”, which means third.

The text is as follows. Translation in parethesis.

Ren helan slunkit ner (The first one already slipped down)
och halvan tagen är. (And the second has been taken)
Men magen vill ha mer, (But my tummy still wants more)
men magen vill ha mer, (My tummy still wants more)
ej släckt är dess begär. (It’s desire has not been satisfied)
Till tersen nu den trår, (It’s longing for the third)
till tersen nu den trår. (It’s longing for the third)
Så drickom, drickom, (So let’s drink, let’s drink)
skål, gutår. (Cheers, Drink up!)

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The Health Benefits of Singing and Eating with Friends

Welcome to Vasa Drängar’s blog, where we will explore the holistic connection between singing and eating with friends, and the profound impact it can have on our overall health and well-being. We firmly believe that fostering positive social connections and engaging in activities that nourish both the body and the soul are essential for achieving optimal wellness. In this article, we will delve into the incredible health benefits of singing and sharing meals with friends, highlighting how these practices contribute to a vibrant and balanced life. So, let’s dive in and discover the transformative power of harmonious melodies and communal dining.

The Healing Power of Singing

  1. Promotes Emotional Well-being: Singing has been scientifically proven to release endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones, reducing stress and promoting a sense of happiness and relaxation. When we sing with friends, the shared experience amplifies these positive emotions, fostering a deep sense of connection and joy.
  2. Boosts Immune Function: Singing involves deep diaphragmatic breathing, which enhances oxygenation and blood circulation. This strengthens the immune system and improves overall health and resilience.
  3. Enhances Lung Capacity: Singing exercises the muscles of the respiratory system, promoting deep and controlled breathing. This helps expand lung capacity, improves respiratory function, and enhances overall vitality.

The Art of Communal Dining

  1. Nourishes Social Connections: Sharing a meal with friends creates an opportunity for meaningful connections and bonding. It fosters a sense of belonging and support, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting overall mental well-being.
  2. Encourages Mindful Eating: Dining with friends allows for a slower, more mindful approach to eating. When we engage in conversation and savor each bite, we are more in tune with our body’s signals of hunger and satiety, leading to healthier food choices and better digestion.

Combining Singing and Eating with Friends for Optimal Wellness

  1. Organize Singing Gatherings: Host singing sessions with friends, where you can come together and share favorite songs. Whether it’s a karaoke night or an impromptu sing-along, the experience will create joy, laughter, and lasting memories.
  2. Plan Potluck Dinners: Arrange regular potluck dinners with friends, where each person brings a homemade dish to share. This allows for a diverse and nutritious meal while fostering a sense of community and culinary exploration.
  3. Create a Mindful Dining Environment: Set the stage for mindful eating by creating a peaceful and welcoming dining atmosphere. Dim the lights to create a relaxed setting and encourage open conversations to fully savor the sensory experience of the meal.

The intertwining of singing and eating with friends provides a powerful avenue for holistic wellness. By embracing the healing power of harmonious melodies and communal dining, we nourish not only our bodies but also our souls. Singing uplifts our spirits, enhances our immune system, and deepens social connections. Sharing meals with friends fosters a sense of belonging, encourages mindful eating, and supports digestive health. So, let us make a commitment to prioritize the joy of singing and the nourishment of shared meals in our lives, and reap the countless benefits of this holistic approach to wellness. Let the harmonies resonate and the conversations flow as we embark on a journey towards vibrant health and meaningful connections.

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Halvan: schnapps Number two

Schnapps songs hold a significant place in Sweden’s cultural heritage. Originating in the 18th or 19th century, drinking songs have become a cherished part of Swedish celebrations, such as Midsummer, Christmas, weddings as well as any party where people gather and at least one person can sing. With their catchy melodies and participatory nature, they are a cornerstone of Swedish festivities, making singing a beloved tradition across generations.

The concept of “Halvan” is an old Swedish tradition. Halvan, which translates to “The Half,” is a popular drinking song in Sweden. It follows sequentially after another famous schnapps song called “Helan,” meaning “The Whole” or “The First.” While Helan is associated with the beginning of the schnapps-drinking ritual, Halvan is another word for the second, as in schnapps number two. These songs are often sung in tandem during festivities, symbolizing the progression of the drinking experience.

The most famous version of Halvan is based on a song written by the composer Gunnar Wennerberg called “Hur länge skall i Norden den döda fred bestå?” This phrase means “how long shall in the north, the peace of death be allowed to last? The composer was basically trying to rally up some emotions in a war effort.

The travesty version Halvan used the same catchy melody as the original, but the words were changed to “Hur länge skall på borden, den lilla halvan stå?” , meaning – “how long shall on the table, the little second schnapps be allowed to remain?”

The Halvan version is today the better known one that has stood the test of time. Sung during festive occasions, Halvan exemplifies the joy and togetherness found in Swedish celebrations, making it an enduring and beloved tradition.

Click below for a sample of the arrangement often performed by the Atlanta based men’s choir Vasa Drängar.

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Singing Swedish Schnapps Songs: A Spirited Musical Tradition

Welcome to our blog, where we embark on a journey into the lively and spirited world of singing Swedish Schnapps songs. Rooted in Swedish culture and tradition, these songs add a unique touch to celebrations and gatherings which are often accompanied by the clinking of glasses and joyful camaraderie. In this article, we will delve into the rich history, cultural significance, and infectious melodies of Swedish Schnapps songs. So, raise your glass, let the music fill your soul, and join us as we explore this beloved Swedish musical tradition.

Swedish Schnapps songs, also known as “snapsvisor,” have been an integral part of Swedish celebrations for centuries. These songs are typically sung during festive occasions, especially when toasting with schnapps, a traditional Swedish distilled spirit. The lively and humorous nature of Schnapps songs creates an atmosphere of joy, camaraderie, and merriment.

Schnapps songs encompass a wide range of themes, from traditional folk tunes to witty and humorous verses. They often feature catchy melodies that encourage group singing and participation. The lyrics of Schnapps songs touch upon various aspects of Swedish life, such as nature, love, friendship, and the enjoyment of good food and drink. The spirited nature of the songs brings people together, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.

Swedish Schnapps songs hold a deep cultural significance in Sweden. They serve as a means of cultural expression and strengthen social bonds within communities. When singing Schnapps songs, Swedes join in unison which creates a sense of togetherness and shared experience. The songs act as a joyful catalyst for conversation, laughter, and a celebration of Swedish heritage.

Swedish Schnapps songs are not only beloved in Sweden but have also gained popularity and appreciation worldwide. The infectious melodies and lively spirit of these songs make them a delightful addition to multicultural celebrations and events. Embracing Swedish Schnapps songs allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to experience the warmth, humor, and camaraderie that they bring.

Most of the time Schnapps songs are sung in unison by enthusiastic people with a wide range of talent; all the way from excellent singers to people who sing “rather than well”. But many, many of these songs have also been arranged in four part harmonies for choirs. Sometimes there are more serious pieces that have already been arranged for choir, where the text is re-written in a humorous way to describe some drinking practice. Other times there are songs that were Schnapps songs first and then later harmonies were added. Either way, Schnapps songs usually make up a significant portion of most choirs’ repertoire.

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Embracing the Joy of Acapella with “Helan Går”

Welcome to our blog post, where today we delve into the joyous world of acapella singing, Swedish party style, with the beloved classic “Helan Går.” This traditional Swedish Schnapps song has been a staple at celebrations for generations, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and merriment. In this article, we explore the infectious charm of “Helan Går” in acapella renditions, and how it has become an anthem of togetherness at Swedish parties. Join us as we raise our glasses, harmonize our voices, and immerse ourselves in the harmonious revelry of “Helan Går.”

“Helan Går” is a lively drinking song deeply rooted in Swedish tradition. With its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, it has become a cherished anthem of celebration and togetherness. Sung during festive occasions, especially when toasting with aquavit or other traditional Swedish spirits, “Helan Går” encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Swedish party culture.

First mentioned in writing in 1843, Helan Går has become a pillar of Swedish tradition and culture. When Sweden’s ice hockey team won the 1957 World Ice Hockey Championships in Moscow, not all of the Swedish players knew the lyrics to the Swedish national anthem “Du Gamla, Du Fria”, so the players sang Helan går instead. When the famous Austro-Hungarian composer Franz Lehar visited Sweden in 1936 he heard performances of the song and believed it to be Sweden’s national anthem. He was so impressed that upon his return home he sat down and wrote five variations on the song to illustrate five different emotional moods.

In recent years, acapella renditions of “Helan Går” have gained popularity, offering a unique twist to this age-old classic. By stripping away instruments, acapella arrangements bring the pure beauty of vocal harmonies to the forefront. Singers use their voices to recreate the melody, percussion, and even mimic the sound of clinking glasses, creating an immersive and captivating musical experience.

  1. Vocal Six: This Swedish acapella group delivers a spirited rendition of “Helan Går” with their impeccable harmonies and infectious energy. Their vibrant vocal arrangements and playful delivery make it impossible to resist joining in and raising a glass to celebrate.
  2. The Real Group: Known for their exceptional vocal talents, The Real Group infuses “Helan Går” with their signature blend of creativity and precision. Their acapella rendition showcases tight harmonies, dynamic vocal improvisation, and an infectious rhythm that will have partygoers singing and clinking glasses in unison.
  3. Rajaton: The Finnish vocal ensemble Rajaton puts their unique touch on “Helan Går” with their masterful vocal skills. Their harmonies are beautifully intertwined, evoking a sense of joy and camaraderie that perfectly complements the festive spirit of the song.
  4. Vasa Drängar: This Atlanta based Swedish men’s choir has taken on what could be described as the most ambitious attempt to date at a performance of “Helan Går”. The choir’s founding member, Göran Rygert, set out to arrange the song for men’s choir in four harmonies based on the above-mentioned five variations by Franz Lehar. This very demanding and incredibly entertaining version has only been performed a handful of times for local audiences in Atlanta.

Incorporating “Helan Går” into your Swedish party playlist adds an element of tradition and unifies guests in joyous celebration. Here are a few tips to embrace the spirit of “Helan Går” at your next gathering:

  1. Gather your guests: Encourage everyone to come together in a circle, forming a sense of unity and togetherness.
  2. Raise your glasses: As the song begins, raise your glasses high in the air, ready to toast and sing.
  3. Sing with gusto: Embrace the infectious melody and humorous lyrics of “Helan Går,” encouraging everyone to join in and sing their hearts out.
  4. Mimic the sounds: In acapella fashion, create the sounds of clinking glasses and cheerfully interact with the lyrics, adding a touch of theatricality and fun.

“Helan Går” in acapella form brings an extra layer of charm and vocal camaraderie to Swedish party traditions. With its lively melody and catchy lyrics, this beloved drinking song quickly sets the tone of the party. Here is a sample arranged for men’s choir.

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