NEWS
2023 Punsch Ball
Our annual Punsch Ball took place on the 4 November at the Savile Club in the heart of Mayfair. The guests were entertained at a drink’s reception by the harpist Heather Brooks from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. During the three course dinner the clarinettist Raymond Brien and the pianist Robert Hao gave...
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Christy Symington at The Queen’s House
As part of Black History Month renowned artist Christy Symington talked about of sculpture of Olaudah Equiano, the writer, freedman, and abolitionist. He was known during most of his life as Gustavus Vassa named after Gustav Vasa, who was elected King of Sweden (and Finland) 500 years ago.
Sigismund Dinner
The Anglo-Swedish and Anglo-Finnish societies arranged a King Sigismund Dinner at the Polish Club’s Ognisko Restaurant. 2023 is the five hundredth anniversary of the accession of King Gustav Wasa to the Swedish (including Finnish) throne. His grandson, King Sigismund Wasa, was the only person to have been ruler of Sweden, Finland, Poland and Lithuania. All...
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Ivar Kreuger Talk
Professor David Goldsmith presented a gripping and entertaining talk on the “most famous Swede nobody ever talks about” to a packed audience in Mayfair. David spoke about the infamous “Match King” Ivar Kreuger, his life, work and dramatic downfall. With the use of slides and even original shares certificates from the period, David took us...
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Sir John Ure 1931-2023
The Society's Vice-President and former Chairman (1992-96) has died at 92. John Ure joined the Foreign Service in 1956, where he rose to become Counsellor (intermittently serving as Chargé d'Affaires) in Lisbon from 1972 to 1977, Ambassador to Cuba from 1979 to 1981, Ambassador to Brazil from 1984 to 1987, and Ambassador to Sweden from 1987 to 1991. In Who's Who, John Ure lists his pastime as "Traveling in remote and uncomfortable places and subsequently writing about it comfortably." Sir John is survived by his wife, Lady Caroline Ure.
Mils Bridgewater
Our Art Scholar Mils Bridgewater writes: I am delighted that one of my favourite pieces has been chosen to be part of the Royal Society of Marine Artist’s exhibition at the Mall Galleries from the 20th to the 30th of September. This piece was inspired by the waters around Stockholm while on a residency at...
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Raymond Brien
The Anglo-Swedish Society were delighted to be able to sponsor young, talented, British clarinetist, Raymond Brien, travel to perform at the Hjorted Art and Music Festival. Raymond is a graduate of the Royal Academy and currently on trial as principal clarinet with the BBC Symphony Orchestra. The festival took place in Småland, Sweden, and champions...
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Michael Downey
The society recently sponsored UK author and film maker Michael Downey to travel to Fårö in June to take up his role as Writer-in-Residence at the Bergman Center. This is the foundation dedicated to Ingmar Bergman. The Bergman Estate is open to writers, artists, scholars and journalists from around the world. The estate is managed...
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Amie Foon
Congratulations to our 2017-2019 music scholar, who was presented with the prestigious Friends’ Opera Scholarship, by HM King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden at Drottningholm Palace Theatre on 7 June. The scholarship was established by the Friends of the Drottningholm Theater Association and is worth SEK 100,000. Amie is a mezzo-soprano who graduated from the...
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Gustav Wasa 500 years
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society and Anglo-Finnish Society joined together to celebrate the five-hundredth anniversary of the election of Gustav Wasa as King of Sweden and Grand Duke of Finland. Eleven days after his election, Gustav Wasa made a triumphant entry into Stockholm and twenty-one years later he abolished Sweden/ Finland’s hereditary monarchy and established...
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Sweden-Russian War 1808-1809
Professor David Goldsmith gave a fascinating talk about the Swedish-Russian War of 1808-9 and its immense consequences for Sweden and Finland. The talk took place at St. Anne’s Church, Soho. We are very grateful to David for so generously giving up his time and to the Anglo-Finnish Society for hosting the event.
Valborg 2023
Spring was well and truly welcomed at our recent Valborg celebrations in the convivial surroundings of the Travellers Club in Piccadilly. The guest of honour was the renowned author Ulla-Lena Lundberg who was in London to give her talk earlier in the week. The Oxford and Cambridge Scandinavian Societies were represented, and our music scholar...
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Ulla-Lena Lundberg
The renowned Finland-Swedish author Ulla-Lena Lundberg spoke to members and friends of the society about her work and gave a brief introduction to Swedish literature. Ulla-Lena is probably best known for her 2012 novel Is, translated into English as Ice for which she received the Finlandia Prize. The event was held in the intimate setting of the...
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Eivor Martinus 1943-2023
The author and translator, Eivor Martinus has died at the age of 79 years and 11 months. She debuted with a youth novel in 1971, followed by four more novels, seven biographies and non-fiction books, and four of her own plays that were staged in England. Her most outstanding cultural achievement, however, consists of a large number of translations of classic Swedish plays into English. READ MORE
The Baltic Cauldron
The Baltic Cauldron was launched at Queen Anne’s Gate on 13 March. This book portrays the relationship between the Swedish and British Navies over 500 years of extraordinary events in the Baltic region. This ground-breaking study is filled with new insights and contains much previously unpublished information, some based on Swedish sources which are not...
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Maasai beaded belt
The Anglo-Swedish Maasai beaded belt – Hand beaded in Kenya. – 6000 beads on a size 36 belt – The ONLY source of employment for an impoverished community – Bespoke sizes available (i.e. 35, 37 etc.) by emailing info@manyatta.co – Up to 4 weeks delivery time – £90 (£95 size 42+) including presentation box, postage...
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Víkingur Ólafsson
Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson has received the 2023 ‘International Nordic Person of the Year Award’ from CoScan, the Confederation of Scandinavian Societies in the UK. The award recognises Ólafsson as “an extraordinary advocate for music across the generations,” and was presented by the Ambassador of Iceland, His Excellency Sturla Sigurjónsson, and Alexander Malmaeus, Chairman of...
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Nordic Winter Art
Council member Christina Cadogan hosted a private view of Nordic art with a winter theme at the Fiumano Clase Galleries in Pall Mall. The exhibition was curated by council member Christina and her business associate Andres Clase. Christina is an art consultant and dealer specialising in Nordic art.
Punsch Ball
Members and guests enjoyed a marvellous evening of food, wine, song and dancing in the convivial surroundings of the Cavalry and Guards Club, Piccadilly. Mezzo soprano, Aina Miyagi Magnell sang. Aina is a Masters student of classical singing at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. She has been part of many productions including Der...
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Ambassador’s Reception
Members were invited to a lively reception and concert hosted by H E Mikaela Kumlin Granit at the Swedish Ambassador’s Residence. A special performance was given by Mae Heydorn, the society’s 2008-10 music scholar. Mae is a contralto and sang a wonderfully varied repertoire ranging from Wagner to Gilbert and Sullivan. She has enjoyed great...
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1923 Cup
Herr Joachim Köhler generously donated a commemorative pewter cup from the 1923 Gothenburg exhibition to our sister society in Gothenburg. It was from his parents-in-laws’ estate. John Chaplin, chair of the Anglo-Swedish Society in Gothenburg commented “it has obviously been used on many joyful occasions but the Anglo-Swedish stamp on the bottom is very clear....
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Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022
The Anglo-Swedish Society is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and gives thanks for her 70 years of service to the nation and to the world. Our thoughts are with King Charles III and with his family.
Märta Måås-Fjetterström
Ingrid Person Skogh spoke about the remarkable life and work of one of Sweden’s most influential artists, Märta Måås-Fjetterström.
College of Arms
John Petrie OBE, Windsor Herald at the College of Arms, hosted a talk and supper at the College of Arms in the City of London. This is the corporation responsible for the granting of new coats of arms, genealogical research and the recording of pedigrees in England and Wales. The College is also the official...
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Carl Michael Bellman
Dr. Jennie Nell, lecturer at Stockholm University and vice-chairman of the Swedish Bellman Society, gave an online talk about Sweden’s most famous songwriter, composer, musician, poet and entertainer. Carl Michael Bellman (1740-1795) is often referred to as Sweden’s national poet. His debut work was Evangeliska Dödstankar (Evangelical Death Thoughts) which was written in 1757 and...
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CoScan Magazine
Pardaad Chamsaz writes about the Nordic Collections at the British Library; Karin Sjölin Frudd about SveaBritt 40th anniversary celebrations; Brita Green on Living with two languages and the CoScan Travel Award. The Anglo-Swedish Society is a member organisation of the Confederation of Scandinavian Societies. Read Newsletter 2022-1
Åbo Swedish Theatre
A Zoom talk and virtual tour of Åbo Svenska Theater, the Åbo Swedish Theatre, was given by the theatre’s head of Communications, Maria Olin. This outstandingly beautiful theatre is the oldest in Finland, among the oldest theatres in Northern Europe and is still primarily in its original form. The first theatre in Finland was built...
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HRH The Prince of Wales
We are delighted to announce that HRH The Prince of Wales KG KT GCB OM has agreed to become the Society’s new Patron, alongside HM The King of Sweden and HE the Swedish Ambassador. HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was our Patron from 1954 until his death last year. Lord Alan Beith Kt...
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Valborg Dinner
The Swedish Ambassador, HE Mikaela Kumlin, attended the society’s first Valborg dinner since 2019. The London Nordic Choir led a full house in song at the Travellers Club on Pall Mall as members and guests welcomed spring in the traditional manner. The dinner followed the Annual General Meeting, chaired by our President, Lord Beith PC.
Tjolöholm Castle
Author and photographer Elisabeth Svalin Gunnarsson spoke online about this exceptional country house in the Swedish province of Halland. It was designed in the English style by Lars Israel Wahlman (1870–1952) for the shipping magnate James Fredrik Dickson (1844-1898). The house was inherited by Dickson’s daughter Blance Bonde in 1906 and became a registered historical...
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Three Men From the North
Members of the Society were invited to a performance of Three Men from the North, a collaboration between Sweden, Finland and Iceland produced by the Nordic Council. It was part of Nordic Exposure, a season of performances bringing Nordic culture to London. The Nordic Council was created in 2017 by Merri Heikkilä (Finland), Bjarni Árnason (Iceland)...
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Sweden’s Royal French Regiment
Professor Neil Kent and Captain Clement Chevalier spoke about a Swedish regiment that participated in France’s greatest military campaigns during the reign of Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI. Régiment de Royal Suédois played a part during the American War of Independence, fighting alongside Lafayette and General George Washington until the victory at Yorktown....
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Computational Design & Architecture
Dr Henrik Malm, Architect and Computational Designer at FOJAB, gave a talk on how innovation is driving sustainable design. Dr Malm gave a talk to the Anglo-Swedish Society in June 2017, while he was working at Foster + Partners in London. In 2014, he was awarded a scholarship by the Society of Swedish Engineers in...
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CoScan Magazine
Among articles of general interest this time we have an article on place-names of Scandinavian origin in Britain and an update on the state of radioactivity in Nordic reindeer caused by the Chernobyl accident. Further, as December is upon us, we look at where Christmas trees from Norway have been donated since the Second World...
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Håkan Mogren 1944-2021
The former President of our sister society, the Swedish-British Society (Stockholm), Dr Håkan Mogren, has died aged 77. After being vivaed for his DSc at Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan with a thesis entitled ”Mechanical disintegration in the processing of single-cell protein”, he devoted his career to industry. Firstly as CEO of the confectionary company Marabou AB...
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In the Shadow of a Saint
The renowned author Eivor Martinus talked (in English) about her recent book I Skuggan av ett Helgon which explores the role Swedish Saint Birgitta’s (c 1303 – 1373) daughter Katarina (c. 1332 – 1381) played in her life and how she was instrumental in the foundation of the Bridgettine convent. Without her, St. Birgitta would...
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Sara Stridsberg
The Swedish Embassy and the MacLehose Press invited members of the Anglo-Swedish Society to the UK digital launch of The Antarctica of Love by Sara Stridsberg, translated by Deborah Bragan-Turner. The event was held via Zoom. Sara and Deborah were interviewed by editor Rose Green to discuss the book and translation process. At the end...
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Dealing with the Dead in the Viking Age
Professor Neil Price of Uppsala University, arguably the global doyen of matters Viking, and the author of a superb book on Viking history and culture, The Children of Ash and Elm (2020) gave a fascinating talk to our members. Neil shared with us his scholarship and learning around a very interesting facet of that remarkable...
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Ami-Louise Johnsson in Prague
The Anglo-Swedish Society's music scholar Ami-Louise Johnsson shared Second Prize at the prestigious Oskar Nedbal Viola Competition in Prague. The jury could not decide who would be given 1st prize so they decided for us to split the shares of both prizes, although Officially no one received the 1st. Ami-Louise also won the prize for the best interpretation of Oskar Nedbal Romantic Piece op.18.
Secret Stockholm
Dr Claire Thomson spoke to the Society about the use of short films by the Swedish Government following the end of World War II. The title was Screening Mid-Century Sweden. In the wake of WWII, governments, businesses, and international organisations used short films to instruct and persuade their populations about matters ranging from public health to...
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CoScan Magazine
Over the last year it has however become clearer that Britain has moved significantly away from its former partners in the European Union. Deals are still made, quarrels flare up but are apparently resolved, we are all still talking to each other; but we in the UK are clearly now outsiders, and shall remain so...
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Frank Heller and England
Professor Wilhelm Engström, editor and co-author of the recently published book “Frank Heller och England” gave an online talk on the author's adventurous life and relationship with England. We were most grateful to our sister society, the Anglo-Swedish Society in Gothenburg, for arranging this joint event.
Sir Roger Gifford 1955-2021
Sir Roger Gifford, the respected London banker and great supporter of the Anglo-Swedish Society, has died aged 65. On being sworn in as the 685th Lord Mayor of London in November 2012, Roger invited the Anglo-Swedish Society to enter a float in the Lord Mayor's Show to represent the Kingdom of Sweden. Lady Gifford and he generously hosted an Anglo-Swedish Society ball at the Mansion House in October 2013. Although grand events at Mansion House usually end at 11pm sharp, they allowed members and distinguished guests to dance until the small hours.
River Kings
The Anglo-Norse Society generously invited members of sister societies within the Confederation of Scandinavian Societies (CoScan) to join this exciting talk by Dr Cat Jarman about her book, River Kings. Dr Jarman is a bioarchaeologist and field archaeologist specialising in the Viking Age and Viking Age women. The book is a riveting piece of historical detective...
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Josefin Roos
Author Josefin Roos gave a fascinating talk about her latest critically acclaimed book Black Swallow (‘Svartsvala’) and about her earlier books. In Black Swallow, Lucía recovers consciousness after a stroke. She has no short-term memory and has to re-learn everything from scratch. Her doctor tells her that she is liable to have another stroke any...
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Swedish-British-Indian cooking
The Swedish-British Society (Stockholm) hosted its first ever cook-along, led by culinary diplomat Sanjoo Malhotra. Sanjoo has lived in Sweden for the past 25 years, giving Indian cooking classes and conducting culinary tours to India. Download recipes with a list of ingredients to see what was prepared. There was also a discussion of the historical...
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Sweden’s Contribution to the 2021 International Booker
Translator Nichola Smalley (Anglo-Swedish Society Scholar 2007-08) and author Andrzej Tichý are on the longlist for the International Booker Prize 2021 for the English translation of the novel Wretchedness (‘Eländet’). To celebrate this, the Swedish Embassy in collaboration with SELTA (Swedish English Literary Translators’ Association) hosted a live streamed event on Thursday 15th April featuring the duo in conversation. The talk was moderated by Dr Anja Tröger, Teaching Fellow in Scandinavian Studies at the University of Edinburgh.
UK Parliament: Hansard
The UK Parliament was recalled a day early to allow members to tribute to His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh. Our President, the Rt Hon the Lord Beith, gave the following address to the House of Lords:
"... I want to refer to his patronage of organisations... by highlighting simply one of them in which he took a close interest: the Anglo-Swedish Society... The Duke’s patronage of the Anglo-Swedish Society was no mere formality; he was actively interested in what the society was doing, particularly its work in bringing talented young Swedes to the Guildhall School of Music and the Royal College of Art, contributing to our own national cultural life."
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh 1921-2021
It is with great sadness that we note the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG KT. He become Patron of the Anglo-Swedish Society in 1954, over 65 years ago. The 60th anniversary of this Patronage was celebrated at Buckingham Palace on 4 November 2014. His Royal Highness became Patron when Major-General Sir Harold...
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Raising SS Egypt
The P&O Liner SS Egypt sank off Brest in 1922. Amongst its cargo was £1million in gold. Neil Sandberg described the salvage of the cargo, which was at a depth of 65 fathoms (400ft). The deepest known salvage until then was at 25 fathoms (150ft), so very few believed that recovery was possible … apart...
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Swedish Pioneers
A talk by Professor David Goldsmith and Erik Orłowski exploring how the Swedish emigration crisis of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries spawned the birth of Swedish Social Democracy. David described the emigration, its causes and consequences. Eric explained the impacts on Sweden in the first part of the 20th Century, with special focus...
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The Linnean Society
The Anglo-Swedish Society is pleased to welcome the Linnean Society of London as its newest Corporate Member. The two societies have had an association for many decades and it is hoped that this marks an even closer connection in the future.
Carl Linnaeus
Dr Isabelle Charmantier of the Linnean Society of London gave the Anglo-Swedish Society a virtual tour of the Linnean Society and a talk about Carl Linnaeus. She was supported by Dr Will Beharrell. An edited version of the talk, including the Q&A session, will be published on our YouTube Channel.
Call for Nominations
The prestigious CoScan Nordic Person of the Year Award recognises achievements and outstanding merit of an individual, body or group related to one or more of the five Nordic countries. The 2020 award was presented to Jo Nesbø, the renowned Norwegian author. You can see a video of the ceremony on the CoScan YouTube channel....
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Nordic Light in Swedish Painting
In a talk with the title “How Swedish Art achieved its own identity in the late Nineteenth and early Twentieth Century“, Christina Cadogan, Art Advisor and Director of Cadogan Fine Arts, spoke about how artists in Sweden forged a Nordic identity and celebrated their culture through painting by turning to history, folklore, literature and the unique...
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Travel Award
The CoScan Travel Award helps young British people visit a Scandinavian country. It is open to anyone between the ages of 15 and 25, planning to undertake a worthwhile project of a broadly educational nature. READ MORE The closing date for applications for a Travel Award grant is 31st March 2021. DOWNLOAD APPLICATION FORM. CoScan...
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The Phantom Carriage
We were delighted to see so many members and friends join us for a virtual talk by Dr Claire Thomson (UCL) on the classic Swedish film The Phantom Carriage (Körkarlen) on 1 December. This talk marks the centenary of the première of the film on 1 January 1921. Adapted from the 1912 novella by Selma...
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St Andrew’s Day Gala
We were delighted to see many of our members and friends at a Zoom gala event hosted by our sister organisation, the Swedish-British Society (Stockholm), celebrating St Andrew’s Day 28 November. Traditionally a ball, the event was successfully held as a virtual event with over 60 people joining. We sang and listened to music and...
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Lord Beith Elected
We are delighted to announce that The Right Honourable the Lord Beith PC was elected as the new President of the Anglo-Swedish Society at the Annual General Meeting on Friday 6 November. Lord Beith succeeds his late wife, Baroness Maddock (1945 – 2020), and has been a great supporter of the Anglo-Swedish Society since their marriage in 2001. Lord Beith is...
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Gustavus Adolphus Day
Charles Stern (2010-11 scholar) gave a talk about the innovative work of Studio Stern. The application of the latest digital fabrication technologies to traditional glass and ceramic production is yielding some astonishing results. Current music scholar Ami-Louise Johnsson (violin & viola), accompanied by Pau Vendrell Vilardaga (piano) performed pieces by Bartok, Milhaud and Faurè. Johan...
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Animals That No One But Us Has Seen
Linda Bondestam gave an excellent presentation to the Society’s largest gathering to date. Members and friends particularly enjoyed her charming poetry readings from some of the children’s books that she has illustrated. Linda is one of the Nordic’s Countries’ best-known artists, illustrators and authors, and her playful use of colour is delicately balanced with the appropriate...
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Hilma af Klint
The Anglo-Swedish Society invited its friends and members to a virtual screening in English of Beyond the Visible: Hilma af Klint, an award winning documentary by Halina Dyrschka, in collaboration with Modern Films. Hilma af Klint, 1862-1944, was a Swedish abstract artist before the term existed, and considered a visionary in Western art who inspired...
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Sweden and the Nordic Nations – a Baltic Perspective
Caroline Boggis-Rolfe, noted lecturer and historian, gave a talk based on her recent book “The Baltic Story: A Thousand-Year History of Its Lands, Seas and Peoples” (Amberley Publishing 2019). She answered questions after the Zoom talk. David Goldsmith and Eric Orlowski were on hand to ensure that the discussion was both memorable and informative.
Paul Binding on Selma Lagerlöf
Paul Bindiing is a literary critic, novelist, and a renowned expert in Scandinavian literature. He gave an engaging and highly informative talk via Zoom on the work of Selma Lagerlöf (1858-1940). Paul Binding describes her as a truly great writer – profound, original and virtuous. SShe was the first woman to be awarded the Nobel...
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Charlotta Buxton
Journalist Charlotta Buxton described what she sees as three British legends and historical events that have informed both Brexit and the British response to Covid-19. From a mostly forgotten myth that speaks of Britain’s founding father to two great fires and an intrepid scientist’s attempt to prove everyone else wrong – these stories can shine...
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Professor Anders Hallengren new book
World Scientific Publishing is proud to announce that they will publish “Ocean Bound Women” by Anglo-Swedish member and former speaker, Professor Anders Hallengren. This is the history of the Swedish sailing-ship Atlantic (1876–1911) and its crew, including its master mariner Johan Axel Söderström and his seafaring family. A main feature of the book is the first diary from a circumnavigation written by a Scandinavian woman, which stands out as a uniting text for the whole storyline. The publishers will be offering members of the Anglo-Swedish Society an exclusive discount and we hope to hold a book launch in spring 2021.
Tea and Coffee in Britain and Sweden
Professor David Goldsmith and Eric Orlowski gave their third joint talk. This time the topic was “Tea and Coffee in Great Britain and Sweden”, which provided a springboard for an exploration of two nations’ customs, histories and international trade routes. In England (in particular) the archetypal cup of breakfast or afternoon, tea is a cultural...
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Baroness Maddock 1945-2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Diana Margaret Maddock, Baroness Maddock, Lady Beith. She succeeded Inga-Stina Robson, Baroness Robson of Kiddington, as our President in 1999. Baroness Maddock's tireless and enthusiastic work for the Anglo-Swedish Society will be honoured by the creation of a scholarship in her name. She served as Member of Parliament for Christchurch from 1993 to 1997 and was created life peer as Baroness Maddock of Christchurch in the County of Dorset on 30 October 1997. From 1998 to 2000, she was President of the Liberal Democrats. She had an active career at the House of Lords. At the time of her death, she was co-chair of the British-Swedish All-Party Parliamentary Group. READ MORE
National Day Honour
We are proud to announce that our sister organisation, the Anglo-Swedish Society of Gothenburg, will receive a Swedish flag on Sweden’s National Day. Only ten flags are awarded each year to organisations who have made a significant contribution to Swedish society. The presentation is usually made by HM The King at Skansen in Stockholm. However,...
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How Does Your Garden Grow
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society joined the Swedish-British Society in Stockholm online to meet Joe Perkins, a garden designer and successful Chelsea Gold Medalist. Joe gave a very informative talk with help and tips and answered questions on developing our gardens and appreciating other people’s. Joe studied garden design in Oxford and landscape architecture at...
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So Sweden talk
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society joined the Swedish British Society in Stockholm to meet (via Zoom) Alison Allfrey, author of “So Sweden – Living Differently“. Alison moved with her family to Sweden in 2012. The book describes “a journey from apprehension to almost unconditional adoration of a cool, distinct country, admired from afar, little known....
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The Moment Is Now: Carl Bernhard Wadström
The Anglo-Swedish Society hosted the opening of the 3-day International 2015 Carl Bernhard Wadstrom Conference on Human Rights and the Abolition of Slavery was the Mansion House in London. The papers presented, including those by Alderman Sir Roger Gifford, Professor Neil Kent, Mark Florman and Anders Hallengren have been edited by Professor Anders Hallengren and are available from Amazon.
Sweden in Africa
Peter Stein and Professor Emil Uddhammar gave a fascinating talk on Sweden’s trade links with sub-Saharan Africa, from the slave trade to IT. Many members of the Anglo-Swedish Society turn out to have strong links with Africa – through upbringing, ancestry and business. One member present was the cousin once removed of Karen Blixen, the...
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Sweden and Great Britain
Professor Wilhelm Engström has published “Sverige och Storbritannien 1919-2019” (in Swedish) telling the story of the relationship between Sweden and Great Britain through the perspective of the first hundred years of our sister society, the Swedish British Society in Stockholm. He has generously donated 50 copies of the book to be given to the first...
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Anglo-Danish Banquet
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society shared the Anglo-Danish Society’s celebration of the 60th Anniversary of their scholarships and awards programme. The evening was hosted by chairman Wayne Harber and Marguerite Harber at the Drapers’ Hall in the City of London. Her Majesty Queen Margrethe was guest of honour. Also present were HRH The Duchess of...
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CoScan International Award
Dr Lisbet Rausing received the 2019 CoScan International Award at the Swedish Ambassador's Residence, in recognition of her work to preserve culture and the environment throughout the world. Alexander Malmaeus conducted an informal interview with Dr Rausing along the lines of BBC Radio’s "Desert Island Discs". Music was performed by Ami-Louise Johnsson, Alexandria Wreggelsworth and the London Nordic Choir.
Swedish-British Centenary
Our sister Swedish-Bristish Society, celebrated its Centenary at the Grand Hôtel in Stockholm. A ball was hosted by president Helene Crossfield and the British Ambassador, Ms Judith Gough CMG, proposed the toast to the society. Richard Nyström was Master of Ceremonies and the Anglo-Swedish Society was represented by its chairman Alexander Malmaeus and Jacqueline Appel-Malmaeus.
Nina Jahanbin
The Council is delighted to welcome Nina as the society’s new secretary. Nina is head of sales for the Nordic region for the Union Bancaire Privée (UBP). Previously, she has worked at Pinebridge Investments and Neuberger Berman. Nina loves the English countryside and is a keen amateur painter.
Centenary Ball
The Society’s Centenary was celebrated at the Cavalry and Guards Club (see YouTube & Facebook). The Ambassador of Sweden and Mrs Sohlström, the Very Rev Katarina Bäckelin, Rector of the Swedish Church, and Mr Anders Rydell, the Chairman of the Swedish BV Society attended the Centenary. Also present were council members Erik Berggren (Hon Treasurer),...
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Two Tumultuous Tales
As a follow-up to our very popular “Two Kings” talk held in September 2018, the Anglo-Swedish Society organised another event in the elegant hospitable surroundings of the Royal Automobile Club on Pall Mall. A canapé reception followed by two short talks on “Peterloo 1819 – power to the people or pitiful parade?” and “Ådalen 1931–...
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St Giles House Private Tour
A select group of members of the Anglo-Swedish Society visited St Giles House for a guided tour. The 5,500 acre estate is located at Wimborne St Giles in East Dorset. It is the ancestral seat of the Ashley-Cooper family, which is headed by the (half Swedish) 12th Earl of Shaftesbury. When he inherited the estate...
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Helene Schjerfbeck at the Royal Academy
Christina Cadogan arranged a private morning tour for the Anglo-Swedish Society before the public was admitted. Schjerfbeck found artistic success at a young age. She left the Finnish capital for a quieter life that allowed her to concentrate on her work. Nonetheless, keeping in touch with artist friends and the seismic shifts in modern art,...
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Ashurst Emerging Artist Prize
The Anglo-Swedish Society are delighted to announce that their scholar – Kira Phoenix K’inan, has been shortlisted for Ashurst Emerging Artist Prize 2019 … and the exhibition is now open to the public! Ashurst’s aim in sponsoring the Emerging Artist Prize and Emerging Artist Programme is to find, build and support the careers of talented international...
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Carl Florman’s memoirs – Book launch
Carl Florman (1886-1963) served as Sweden’s first ever Airforce Attaché to the United Kingdom in 1922-23. The following year, he co-founded AB Aerotransport (later Scandinavian Airlines) with his brother Adrian. The Florman family and the Royal Air Force Club co-hosted the event. The chairman opened the evening, Mark Florman spoke about his Grandfather, Elisabet Baldwin...
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Heman Lohe: Nordic Tales
Fiumano Clase invited members of the society to join them for a coffee morning with a viewing of Nordic Tales, an exhibition of works by Swedish artist, Heman Lohe. The exhibition featured recently completed paintings as well as older works. Lohe is a multidisciplinary artist who identifies nature as his primary muse; the subject matter...
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Royal Ascot
Members and friends of the Anglo-Swedish Society were invited to attend the City University Club’s Royal Ascot Event. A coach had been booked to take us from London to the Ascot Racecourse directly with complimentary nibbles and drinks. Upon arriving, we were greeted and welcomed into the Silk Lawns at the CUC’s tent with a...
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Brexit tech seminar
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society and the Society of Swedish Engineers in Great Britain attended a seminar on London’s post-Brexit role for Swedish tech firms at Buck’s club. Speaker and panel coordinator Dr. Patrik Kärrberg (UCL / Entrepreneur) was joined by Professor Jonathan Liebenau and Dr. Jonathan Dann. A three-course dinner was served after the seminar.
Munch Graphic Works
The Anglo-Norse Society kindly invited us to join them for a visit to the much awaited exhibition ‘MUNCH GRAPHIC WORKS: Love, Loss and Loneliness‘ at the British Museum. There was a fascinating curator’s lecture followed by a chance to visit the exhibition and enjoy the artworks.
Valborg 2019
Members and guests returned to the Society’s favourite location for the annual Valborg dinner: Charles Barry’s historic and exquisite library at the Travellers Club. The society’s music scholar Amie Foon (mezzo-soprano) gave a performance accompanied by pianist Nicole Johnson. Grace was said by the Reverend Teresia Derlén, Alexander Malmaeus welcomed members and guests, the Very...
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100th Annual General Meeting
The Society’s 100th Annual General Meeting was chaired by its president, Baroness Maddock, at the Travellers Club. The President opened the meeting by welcoming all members. The whole Council was re-elected with the exception of Christian Kåberg who did not seek re-election due to work commitments and was thanked for his valuable contribution. Peter Floyd,...
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Ńorthern Lights Symphony Ørchestra
The Society sponsored the Ńorthern Lights Symphony Ørchestra in London for a Swedish Baroque music concert which featured Bojan Cicis (Academy of Ancient Music) and Ensemble Sylvatica on the 9th April at St. Martin-In-The-Fields in Trafalgar Square. The concert raised a huge amount of funding for the following four children’s Charities: Great Ormond Street, Richard...
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The London run of SAGA
The Anlgo-Swedish Society are proud to have sponsored the London-run of SAGA, an original adaptation of August Strindberg’s surrealist, expressionist piece of theatre, 1901 A Dream Play. It is a 60 minute, bi-lingual (English and Swedish) revival of this classic play. With sold-out audiences and ★★★★ reviews, they were able bring together a balanced audience of...
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Anglo-Danish Society Supper and Concert
The evening started with a delicious supper in the magnificent salons at Draper’s Hall. The guests then moved to the concert venue where young, talented musicians from Guildhall School of Music or Royal College of Music entertained us with a rich and varied programme. The evening was a great success and we were grateful to...
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Flauguissimo Duo album launch
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society were invited to the launch of the new album “A Salon Opera” by Flauguissimo Duo – Yu-Wei Hu (fute) & Johan Löfving (guitar). This period flute and guitar ensemble made their resonus debut with this unique programme of works. The performative event took place in the beautiful Swedish Church in...
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Hatt et Söner Champagne tasting
Hatt et Söner invited 12 Anglo-Swedish Society members to a Champagne tasting in the elegant surroundings of 22 South Audley Street in Mayfair. On arrival, guests were given a glass of Champagne, followed by an introduction to the story behind Hatt et Söner Champagne house. Later on, the personal vintage concept was explained to the...
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Sankta Lucia – A Festival of Light
On the 7th of December, the sixth successive Sankta Lucia celebration took place, involving the Chapter of York and the whole Minster community. The service drew upon the strong historic and cultural links which York has with Scandinavia. The evening saw hymns, readings and prayers and was a special night for all involved. We were...
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Elmgreen & Dragset @ Whitechapel Gallery
Guests participated in a private group guided tour to see ‘This is How we Bite our Tongue’, which was the work of Scandinavian artist duo Michael Elmgreen (Danish) and Ingar Dragset (Norwegian) – well known for their ‘Rocking Horse’ fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square. In their uncanny, beguiling installations, institutional spaces are wittily transformed into...
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Gustavus Adolphus Day 2018
To commemorate Gustavus Adolphus Day, a rare tea tasting event was hosted at Postcard Teas by London based tea expert Timothy d’Offay who is consulted by some of the world mot prestigious restaurants such as The Fat Duck, River Cafe and Fera. During this special event, he presented some of his unique inventions of alcohol based old tree teas...
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Brighton Early Music Festival
Every year, BREMF contributes to the vibrant arts scene in Brighton and Hove through its programme of choral concerts, workshops and schools projects. The success of previous annual festivals means that BREMF has built a reputation for lively and inspired programming, often exploring connections with different art forms and using performance formats and spaces that...
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2018 Punsch Ball
The 2018 Punsch Ball was held in the glorious ballroom at the Savile Club in Mayfair. Rebecca Toal played the harp during pre-dinner drinks. Guests were welcomed by Chairman Alexander Malmaeus and his wife Jacqueline Appel-Malmaeus. The Society’s current music scholar and soprano Amie Foon gave a performance accompanied by pianist Gary Beecher. Guests sang...
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2018 CoScan Award
The 2018 CoScan International Award was presented to the Finnish conductor Sakari Oramo at a concertat the Barbican. The Anglo-Swedish Society is a proud member of the Confederation of Scandinavian Societies. Chairman Eva Robards and President Mark Elliott are pictured behind Oramo (photo by BBCSO). Previous recipients have included Sandi Toksvig, Hans Blix, Mika Häkkinen...
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Two Kings at the RAC
Eric J W Orlowski gave a talk about the enigmatic, controversial, and remarkable figure that was Carolus XII Rex (1682-1718) – the “Lion of the North” or “Swedish Meteor”. Council Member Professor David Goldsmith spoke about the founder of the current Royal House of Bernadotte – Carl XIV Johan (formerly Jean Bernadotte) 1763-1844. There was...
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Drinks at the City University Club
Council member Andreas Nilsson arranged early autumn drinks at the City University Club in on Crutched Friars. This served as an excellent start to the season.
The Crystal Tour
The Crystal is one of the world’s most sustainable buildings and events venues as well as home to the world’s largest exhibition on the future of cities. In collaboration with the Society of Swedish Engineers in Great Britain, the Anglo-Swedish Society organised a 1 hour guided tour of the Crystal Building. There was an opportunity...
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Valborg 2018
The Chairman welcomed the guests and read a letter of thanks from the Society’s Patron, HM King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden. Performances were given by current music scholar Amie Foon (mezzo-soprano). Guests sang traditional Swedish spring songs and the Mr Malcolm Munthe gave a thank you speech to the Society. SEE FACEBOOK
2018 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The 2018 AGM was held at the Travellers Club. There were some changes to Council as Emma Flight did not stand for re-election, and Johan Aurén (Hon Treasurer, 2012-2014) was elected. The re-introduction of a life-membership category was approved (at a sum of 15 times the current normal annual single member subscription). A new £10...
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Fanny & Alexander at the Old Vic
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society enjoyed a reception and the Old Vic’s performance of Fanny & Alexander. Panni Kanyuk welcomed guests with a brief introduction to the play. The essence Ingmar Bergman’s classic film was powerfully and touchingly captured in this 3 hour stage version by writer Stephen Beresford and a 16-strong cast which included...
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Super Troupers
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society were led by a personal tour guide and the voice of narrator Jarvis Cocker on a musical journey with Swedish pop sensation ABBA as they took over 1970s Britain in this one-of-a-kind exhibition. There were nine immersive rooms exploring the music, lyrics and lives of one of the world’s most...
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Jakob Göransson at Sotheby’s
Members and guests were offered a unique opportunity to view a selection of beautiful Impressionist and Modern Art works on display at Sotheby's, ahead of their spring auction. Jakob Göransson enthralled participants with his knowledge about exhibition highlights including works by Picasso, Giacometti, Chagall and other 20th Century greats.
Fanny & Alexander Backstage Notes
Members enjoyed a unique opportunity to hear from director Max Webster and the cast of Fanny & Alexander at the Old Vic’s offsite rehearsal space in Bermondsey, as they shared highlights from the development process of bringing this Bergman classic from page to stage. The evening started with an informal drinks reception. The cast, which included Penelope Wilton, Michael Pennington,...
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2017 PUNSCH BALL
The 2017 Punsch Ball was held in William Gladstone’s magnificent library in the National Liberal Club. Rebecca Toal played the harp during pre-dinner drinks. Guests were welcomed by Chairman Alexander Malmaeus and his wife Jacqueline Appel-Malmaeus. The Society’s Patrons HM The King of Sweden and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh sent their best wishes for...
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Carl Peter Thunberg talk by Pauline Chakmakjian
Members of the Society met at the Linnean Society of London when they enjoyed a talk by Pauline Chakmakjian on one of Carl Linnaeus’s most important disciples, Carl Peter Thunberg (1743–1828). Pauline is an expert on Japan, which is where Thunberg carried out his most important work. The Linnean Society of London is the world’s...
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Mikala Djørup at the Goldsmiths’ Fair
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society and their guests enjoyed a talk by Danish Jeweller Mikala Djørup about her recent work at an intimate private event in the magnificent Court Room at Goldsmiths’ Hall. After the talk, Goldsmiths’ Fair opened its doors giving the chance to view exquisite art pieces and meet some of the world’s...
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Foster + Partners
World famous architects Foster + Partners are leaders in the advanced modelling and computer programming in architectural design. This way of working now informs almost all the practice’s projects through sophisticated simulations which inform every stage of the design process. Former SIS scholar Henrik Malm PhD illustrated the firm’s working methods by presenting some current...
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Swedish Gin and Whisky tasting at Aquavit
A bespoke tutored Swedish gin and whisky tasting supper in the relaxed and luxurious Stockholm Room of Aquavit London. An exquisite fish-based meal was served alongside six rare spirits chosen for the tasting. Our guide Johan Tanner from WhiskyABC, explained how the drinks are produced and how the “Swedishness” of the materials is reflected in...
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An introduction to the “London Model”
The Anglo-Swedish Society held a gathering of representatives of the principal Swedish organisations in London to introduce Eric Muhl, the new Rector of the Swedish congregation, at the Athenaeum Club. Each representative made a brief presentation and there was a chance for everyone present to mingle. The collaboration between these organisations in London has come...
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2017 Annual General Meeting
The 2017 Annual General Meeting, presided over by Baroness Maddock, saw the election of three new members: Robert Freeman, Professor David Goldsmith and Lu Zhou, all of whom are already active in the running of the Society. After drinks and refreshments, Charlotta Buxton, the London correspondent for Sveska Dagbladet, gave a fascinating talk on Elizabeth...
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Valborg 2017
The arrival of spring was celebrated in style at the Society’s Valborg dinner in the famous ballroom of the Savile Club. Johan Hugosson, Tim Hansson Meng and Julia Sigblad performed classical and contemporary music. Members were able to thank Ellen Wettmark for four successful years as Swedish culture attachée and to sing snaps and punsch...
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CoScan International Award 2017
Sandi Toksvig, the Danish-British comedienne, writer and presenter was delighted and honoured to be presented with CoScan’s prestigious International Award of 2017. She accepted this in front of an audience of nearly 3,000 people at the Royal Festival Hall. The Anglo-Swedish Society is pleased to be a member organisation of CoScan / Confederation of Scandinavian...
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Josef Frank exhibition
The art historian Eva Höög presented the work of designer and artist Josef Frank (1885-1967) in the first-ever UK exhibition of his textiles. The Austrian-born architect moved to Sweden in 1933, where he developed his colourful brand of modernism, working with Estrid Ericson on furniture, glassware, lighting and interior design ideas. Together they redefined what...
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New Swedish Ambassador
The Society’s Patron, H E Mr Torbjörn Sohlström and Mrs Helena Vasquez Sohlström returned to their official Residence at Portland Place after presenting credentials to H M Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. The Ambassador’s guests were invited to vin d’honneur and the horses were given carrots. The Anglo-Swedish Society was represented by Alexander Malmaeus...
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SHAKESPEARE IN SONG
Members of the Society enjoyed a very strong performance by internationally renowned mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter, actor Simon Robson and pianist Julius Drake. The performance was part of the Oxford Lieder Festival and was held in Sir Christopher Wren’s 1669 Sheldonian Theatre. After drinks with the artists, members enjoyed an informal supper at Quod...
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2016 PUNSCH BALL
The sixth annual Punsch Ball was held at the prestigious Cavalry & Guards Club. Performances were given by musicians from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Dagmar Zeromska & Carl Vallin, and dancing went on into the small hours. SEE FACEBOOK – SEE VIDEO
Concert at Mansion House
A concert was given at Mansion House by past and present Anglo-Swedish Society music scholars Dagmar Zeromska, Johan Hugosson, Oskar Palmblad and Tim Hansson Meng in the presence of the Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of London. Members and friends enjoyed a drinks reception before and after the concert. “We had a great time and...
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Annika Hall at the National Gallery
Acclaimed guide Annika Hall shared ten of her favourite works at the National Gallery with members of the Anglo-Swedish Society. A highly personal account was brought alive by a depth of knowledge. The tour began with the Wilton Diptych which was painted for King Richard II’s (1377-99) private devotion at Westminster Abbey and wound through...
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Linnéa Hennersten
We are delighted to welcome Linnéa Hennersten as secretary of Anglo-Swedish Society. Linnéa started her career in London working for Annethe Nathan, both in her shop TotallySwedish and looking after her children. She now works in the administrative team for the housing charity Chapter1. The Swedish Church in London has played a big part in...
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Swedish-British Society in Stockholm
The Chairman of the Anglo-Swedish Society was invited as keynote speaker preceding the 2016 Annual General Meeting of its sister organisation, the Swedish-British Society in Stockholm.
Valborg 2016
The 2016 Valborg Dinner kicked off in a jubilent mood immediately after the successful AGM. Grace was said by Robert Freeman, the Mayor of Kensington and Chelsea. The Chairman welcomed the guests and read a letter of thanks from the Society’s Patron, HM King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden. Performances were given by 2009-10 scholar,...
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2016 Annual General Meeting
Bryan Sanderson CBE was elected to chair the meeting in the Society’s President, Baroness Maddock’s place. He opened with a summary of the Society’s past year, which had been a success. The 2015 accounts were presented by the Hon. Treasurer and approved by the meeting. The Officers of the Society were elected by a show...
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Amanda Svart wins Award at Hyères Festival
Amanda Svart (2013 & 2015 Fashion Design Scholar) has won the Audience Award at the Hyères Festival 2016 at Hyères in Southern France. The Jury met in Partis on the 29th of January and chose the finalists which included Amanda Svart. “I decided to call my collection Form Flow because I wanted to capture gravity...
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Amy Jayne Hughes at the V&A
Amy Jayne Hughes’s (2011 Glass and Ceramics Scholar) “Tryst” vase will be available from the Victoria and Albert Museum shop from 11 April. She spent several months in 2015 as artist in residence at the V & A, exhibited at the Saatchi Gallery with the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club and at Vessel Gallery in 2016.
Priory of St. John visit
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society were treated to a rare glimpse of history spanning nine centuries at the Priory of the Venerable Order of St. John in Clerkenwell. Keith Schnaar, a Commander of the Order, captivated those present with his knowledge and good humour and led them back to the modern day in time for...
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AdVince reaches Clinical Trials
A virus which fights cancer: we are pleased to announce that the Medical Product Agency (the regulatory body in Sweden) and the Regional Ethics Committee have approved the initiation of a phase I/IIa clinical trial with AdVince for patients with neuroendocrine cancer. The AdVince virus was produced with money obtained through donations to Uppsala University’s...
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Mae Heydorn contributing to new arts project ‘Opera Helps’
‘Opera Helps’ is the brainchild of artist Joshua Sofaer who plans to present the UK premiere of an extraordinary project that he previously tried – with apparent great success – in Stockholm. The accredited relational dynamics coach, is training nine professional singers for the bespoke service including Mae Heydorn (2008 & 2009 Mezzo Soprano Scholar). LEARN MORE
Ambassador’s Reception
H E The Swedish Ambassador, Ms Nicola Clase, invited members of the Anglo-Swedish Society to a concert and reception at her Residence. Music Scholars Tim Hansson Meng (Viola, Guildhall School of Music and Drama) and Angelika Edlund (Soprano, Musical Theatre Academy) gave a wonderful performances. SEE FACEBOOK & VIDEO
Sweden and MI6
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society joined the Reform Club’s Cryptos Society to hear Wilhelm Angell speak about the collaboration between Sweden and MI6 1943-1954 in counter-intelligence against Soviet penetration and in particular the Petrovs, who came to Stockholm in 1943 and went on to Australia in 1950.
Emilie Hörnlund in Quartet Chiaroscuro
Cristina Fernandes writting for the Público, a Portuguese daily national newspaper published in Lisbon, Portugal praised Alina Ibragimova’s Quartet Chiaroscuro formed by young musicians from various countries including Emilie Hörnlund (2005 Violist Scholar). “Formed by young musicians from various countries (including, in addition to Ibragimova, Spanish violinist Pablo Hernán Benedí, the Swedish violist Emilie Hörnlund and...
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Susanna Andersson at the Huddersfield Choral Society
Alfred Hickling praised Susanna Andersson (2003 Soprano Scholar) for her contribution in the Huddersfield choir on his review for the Guardian. “..the standout contribution comes from Swedish soprano Susanna Andersson, who makes the florid coloratura sound like a breath of fresh air and, while most singers give the impression that performing the piece every Christmas...
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2015 Punsch Ball
Members and guests of the Anglo-Swedish Society returned to the Hurlingham Club for the 5th annual (masked!) Punsch Ball. Performances were given by the our 2015-16 music scholars Tim Hansson Meng (viola) and Angelika Eklund (soprano). The Chairman read messages from the Society’s Patrons HM The King of Sweden and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh....
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Nordic Folk Song film screening
The Anglo-Swedish Society sponsored documentary film makers Andreas Lindström and Emelie Hill Dittmer in their project Nordic Folksong – Creative journeys through a British Landscape. The first three films were screened at an event arranged by the Anglo-Swedish Society in conjunction with the Swedish Church and SWEA. The ongoing project about Scandinavian creatives in the...
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Dr Jonathan Foyle talk and dinner
Renowned architectural historian and speaker Dr Jonathan Foyle gave a riveting talk about the establishment of the Swedish Bridgitine Order in England in 1415 and its subsequent expulsion. He related his experiences as part of Time Team, when the foundations of the long-demolished Abbey was re-discovered under the gardens of the Duke of Northumberland’s Syon...
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Burgh House
A concert was arranged at Burgh House by The Sibelius Society, fellow members of CoScan. The Villiers Quartet played the following works by Sibelius: 2pm Adagio in D minor String Quartet in A minor String Quartet Voces intimae Op. 56
Sibelius
An all-Sibelius concert was given at the Finnish Ambassador’s Residence by Fenella Humphreys, violin, Anton Kukkonen, cello, and Sam Armstrong, piano. The programme included works for violin and piano: the Four Pieces, Op. 78 (including the famous F major Romance), E major Sonatina and Four Pieces, Op. 115. Cello pieces included Malinconia, and all three performers came...
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Abolition of Slavery Conference
The gala opening of the 3-day International 2015 Carl Bernhard Wadstrom Conference on Human Rights and the Abolition of Slavery was hosted by the Anglo-Swedish Society at the Mansion House. Alexander Malmaeus acted as moderator, Lord Mayor Locum Tenens Alderman Sir Roger Gifford spoke about slavery and the the City of London and Swedish Ambassador...
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Swedish International Students & Alumni
The Anglo-Swedish Society hosted a drinks reception and talk for Swedish International Students & Alumni at the Oxford and Cambridge Club on Pall Mall. Alexander Malmaeus and Erik Berggren welcomed the guests, Klara Andersson and Sebastian Andersson introduced SISA and Christer Holloman gave a keynote speech about how to develop a media profile in the...
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1849 Letter from Stockholm
Jonathan Spurrell has written an article for the Anglo-Swedish Society about his ancestor, Rev. Frederick Spurrell, the first regularly appointed Anglican Chaplain in Stockholm. The article begins with a disgruntled account of the state of continental roads, food (“good bread is the rarest thing”) and accommodation (“There is not a single good inn or hotel...
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Valborg 2015
Over 100 members and guests of the Society celebrated Valborg in grand style in the City of London. A Champagne reception and dinner was held at the Tallow Chandlers Hall and the Master and Mistress of that Livery were present. A performance was given by the Society’s music scholars Adrian Ortman and Hans Höglund, and...
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Cables, Codes and Chiphers
Members of the Anglo-Swedish Society were again invited to join the Cryptos Society at the Reform Club for a talk: Following the start of World War One, Britain was able to cut Germany’s undersea telegraph cables passing through the English Channel. Germany was left with just one cable, but even that was under British control....
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Cecilia Ekbäck literary dinner
Cecilia Ekbäck spoke compellingly about her debut novel Wolf Winter. Born in Sweden, she received an MA in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway, and has returned to the landscape and history of her childhood to bring Wolf Winter to vivid life. This is a story built up layer by layer, simultaneously a labyrinthine mystery, an...
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New Anglo-Swedish Society Website
The Anglo-Swedish Society is grateful to Camilla Lilliesköld Design Associates and Andrew McCullough for their tireless efforts in designing and building this website. We believe that it strongly reflects the values of our long-established Society in a way which will help us to engage more closely with existing and future members. The site has been built...
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Raoul Wallenberg: Hero of Budapest
Renowned author, Bengt Jangfeldt gave a talk to members of the Anglo-Swedish Society and Cryptos Society in the magnificent library of the Reform Club on Pall Mall. Also present was the Anglo-Swedish Society’s Patron, H E Nicola Clase, the Swedish Ambassador. See Facebook
Anglo-Danish Society’s 90th anniversary
The Anglo-Danish Society concluded a successful 90th year with a Royal banquet at Drapers’ Hall. The Society’s Patron, HM Queen Margerethe of Denmark, was guest of honour. HRH The Duchess of Gloucester, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, HE the Danish Ambassador and other distinguished guests attended.
Johan Hugosson “Nordic Romance” Gala Concert
The Swedish pianist performed “Nordic Romance” at St James’s Church Piccadilly for the first time and also premiered his new works “Fate” and “Northern Lights”. The concert which was performed in candlelight, featured Johan’s earlier works, “Dusk to Dawn” released in 2012 and “Literas Loquendi” launced in March 2014. Johan was accompanied by the outstanding...
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Anglo-Swedish Society: Sigrid Rausing talk
Members and Guest gathered at the Cavalry and Guards Club to hear the distinguished Swedish-born writer and owner of Granta Books talk about her recently published book “Everything is Wonderful”, a moving and personal memoir of her year in Estonia researching the remnants of the Estonian Swedes and the aftermath of decollectivisation of Estonian agriculture in...
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Buckingham Palace celebrations
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh gave a Champagne reception at Buckingham Palace on 4 November 2014 to celebrate his 60th year as Patron of the Anglo-Swedish Society. 150 members of the Society attended and music was played by a string quartet from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Photography by Jannica Honey SEE FACEBOOK...
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2014 Swedish Punsch Ball
220 Society members and guests ate, drank and made merry into the small hours at the glamorous art deco Banking Hall for the annual Punsch Ball. The Havana Jazz Trio (John Burnet-Hall, Jason Cooper & Oliver Jory) played during the Champagne reception, Dagmar Zeromska (soprano) and Erika Gundesen (piano) performed during dinner and Mark Fellowes...
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State Opening of Parliament
Our Patron, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, generously invited the Anglo-Swedish Society to be represented in the Royal Gallery during the 2014 State Opening of Parliament. Unparalleled pageantry formed the backdrop to the last Queen’s Speech before the 2015 election.
Valborg 2014
Members and guests of the Society celebrated Valborg at the Travellers Club, where they were entertained by former Scholar Olivia Sjöberg. The Swedish Culture attaché presented the Society’s Vice-President Anthony Ardwedson with Patriotiska Sällskapets Guldmedalj för Betydande Gärning i Första Storleken, a medal in the Swedish honours system, for his work as chairman. SEE...
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British Museum Viking exhibition
Dr. Gareth Williams, curator of the important Viking exhibition at the British Museum, gave a talk to members of the Anglo-Nordic Societies. The talk was followed by lunch and visit to the exhibition. SEE FACEBOOK
Mendelssohn: Complete Works for Cello & Piano, Marie Macleod & Martin Sturfält
Geoffrey Norris praised the Martin Sturfält’s (piano) work on his review on The Telegraph. “Marie Macleod and Martin Sturfält weave a scintillating, tightly knit fabric, full of colour and energy. Instinctive coordination and passion are maintained in the B flat Sonata No 1, the cello’s tonal spectrum and the piano’s variety of touch and weight astutely and expressively...
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Dinner at Cavalry and Guards Club
His Excellency Andrew Mitchell, former British ambassador to Sweden, shared his thoughts about the relationship between the two nations at the dinner at this historic club. A shared sense of humour, he said, united the two cultures. An almost puritanical Swedish attitude to alcohol divides us.
2013 Mansion House Punsch Ball
By kind permission of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Roger Gifford, the Society gave a Ball for the Anglo-Swedish Society to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Alliance between the United Kingdom and Sweden. 295 members and guests wined, dined and danced until the small hours. Thank you to our generous...
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VALBORG 2013
The annual Valborg dinner was held in the Savile Club’s beautiful Ball Room, complete with a traditional Swedish menu and music by the Society’s scholars, speech to The Woman and snaps songs. Dagmar Zeromska (mezzo soprano and artistic director) and Olivia Sjöberg (mezzo soprano) sang, Kristina Edin played the double bass, and Justin Snyder played...
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Nikisha Fogo Scholar at the Prix de Lausanne
Our talented scholar Nikisha Fogo in action at the Prix de Lausanne.
Dinner with Håkan Nesser
The world-famous Swedish author Håkan Nesser, creator of Inspector Barbarotti and other works of crime fiction, gave a talk after a 3-course dinner at Hardy’s Restaurant in Marylebone. Some 50 members and guests were delighted by the author’s sense of humour and ability to speak. Among those present was the expert on Scandinavian crime fiction,...
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The Kingdom of Sweden at the Lord Mayor’s Show
The Kingdom of Sweden was represented with a float in the year’s Lord Mayor’s Show, watched by 500,000 people in the City of London and 1.5 million on the BBC. The float was a collaboration between the Anglo-Swedish Society, the Embassy of Sweden, The Swedish Trade Council, VisitSweden, the Swedish School, the Swedish Church and...
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2012 Swedish Punsch Ball
Following the success of the 2011 event, the Swedish Punsch Ball was repeated at the Royal Hospital in Chelsea. The venue, completed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1693, was smaller than that of the previous year which meaant that the 180 guests were treated to a more exclusive event.
Valborg Dinner 2012
Members and guests were invited to take part in a traditional Swedish Valborg dinner. There was a short Speech to the Woman, Speech to the Man and a musical interlude by the Society’s scholars. The Dinner was held at the library of the Traveler’s Club, which is one of the most beautiful and architecturally important...
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Mikael Sandström at the House of Lords
The Society’s President, Baroness Maddock, hosted a most illuminating a talk at the House of Lords where Sweden’s State Secretary Mikael Sandström, Head of the Moderate Party Policy Coordination Office, shed light on recent developments in Swedish politics. The title of the talk was “How has the Swedish Model influenced British Politics“.
2011 SWEDISH PUNSCH BALL
Over 470 members and gests of the Society wined, dined and danced the night away in a traditional Swedish manner at the Hurlingham Club in London. After a welcome speech by the Society’s chairman, Alexander Malmaeus, Martina Westin conducted proceedings as toastmaster. Astrid Trolle Adams and Simon Clement-Davis created a stir with their odes to...
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Strawberry Hill House
Members enjoyed a private tour after the first phase of an extensive restoration project. Accompanied by an experienced guide and we visited parts of the house not usually open to the general public. We met for coffee in the cloister before the tour while after the 1 ½ hours tour lunch was available. Strawberry Hill...
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Drinks Reception with music at the Ambassador’s Residence
The Society’s Patron and Swedish Ambassador, Nicola Clase, kindly invited our members to a drinks reception at her Residence. There was a short musical programme by our Scholars. Some 130 members managed to get through the winter’s first major snow storm in order to attend. The Ambassador also presented our recently retired Secretary, Mrs Kari Hedly, with...
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HOUSE OF LORDS DINNER
The Society’s President, Baroness Maddock, hosted a dinner for members and their guests in the Atlee Room at the House of Lords when she was able to say a few words about life behind the scenes at Parliament. Baroness Maddock is a former member of the House of Commons and married to Sir Alan Beith...
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Gala Nordic Concert at Guildhall Great Hall
The grand official London opening of the Swedish EU Presidency at the historic Guildhall in London. The renowned Nordic Symphony Orchestra featuring trombonist and conductor Christian Lindberg played in the presence of HRH The Crown Princess of Sweden.
90th Anniversary Dinner at the Ambassador’s Residence
The Society’s Patron, H E Staffan Carlsson, the Swedish Ambassador gave a celebration dinner during which the the Society’s music scholars performed. In excess of £5000 was raised for the Scholarship Fund. A thank you speech was given by the Society’s newly elected Vice-President, Mr Anthony Ardwedson, who also took the opportunity to convey his best...
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Reception at the Swedish Ambassador’s residence
The Swedish Ambassador, Mr Staffan Carlsson, once again very kindly hosted a reception in his beautiful residence for members of the Anglo-Swedish Society. Entertainment by our scholars was added to a memorable evening.
Private visit to Buckingham Palace
This year marked the Diamond Wedding Anniversary of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. To mark the occasion, the annual Summer opening of their London residence, featured a special display of the wedding dress as well as the splendid cloths and jewels, worn by the royal family for the occasion. Members enjoyed a...
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AN EVENING WITH GUSTAF FRÖDING
On a short visit to London, acclaimed actress Margaretha Byström from Dramaten in Stockholm and pianist Lasse Zachrisson generously agreed to introduce us to our national poet – in song. During this exiting evening, they performed 24 of Fröding’s poems, all set to music. Wine and nibbles were served.
National Portait Gallery
As the gallery is celebrating its 150th successful year, members marked this occasion with a visit. Chief curator Jacob Simon gave us a guided tour which concentrated on the gallery’s contemporary portrait. Everyone enjoyed a glass of wine in the Portrait Restaurant before the tour.
Visit to James Purdey & Sons
The list of notable people who have owned Purdey guns is endless. Members were received in the magnificent Long Room of the firm’s Mayfair headquarters and were greeted by Mr Richard Purdey, whose great great grandfather founded Purdey’s in 1814. Everyone enjoyed his talk on the firm’s interesting history over a glass of wine which was...
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Ålagille, Annual Eel Feast
The annual eel dinner was a popular event for a number of years. The Dinner was prepared by Swedish Chef Christian Sandefeldt and the event was held in the pleasant dining room at the gastropub Phene Arms. Members enjoyed three different eel dishes, Swedish apple pie with vanilla cause and drinks.
Visit to Clarence House
Members visited the late Queen Mother’s beautifully restored London Home, now the London home of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall. After the visit, afternoon tea was served at Inn The Park, the nearby restaurant at St. James’ Park.
HOUSE OF LORDS RECEPTION
The Society’s President, Baroness Maddock, hosted a reception in the House of Lords. It was held in the Cholomondely Room, with a splendid terrace overlooking The Thames. The event coincided with a lively pro-hunt demonstration outside Parliament, and the Society’s guests had to push their way through a lively crowd to get the party.
2004 FRIENDSHIP BALL
A celebration of the 350th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship between England and Sweden at the Dorchester Hotel. The guests of honour were HM the King and Queen of Sweden and HRH the Duke of Edinburgh. Also in attendance were Archbishop KG Hammar, their excellencies the Swedish an Finnish ambassadors, and 350 distinguished guests....
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