Georg Riedel

Swedish double bass player, arranger and composer of German Bohemian descent.

Born: January 8, 1934, Karlsbad, Czechoslovakia (now Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic)
Died: February 25, 2024, Maria Magdalena, Stockholm, Uppland, Sweden

Georg Riedel was a master of the double bass and a pivotal figure in the Swedish jazz and children's music scenes. Migrating to Sweden aged 4, Riedel's musical life began in Stockholm, where he initially training as a violinist, eventually leading to the double bass and jazz.

Riedel's career was marked by his collaborations with Jan Johansson. The two men created "Jazz På Svenska" ("Jazz in Swedish"), the best-selling of all Swedish jazz records. This album was a cornerstone in the development of a distinctly Scandinavian jazz style, blending traditional Swedish folk melodies with jazz rhythms and harmonies.

However, it was his work with Astrid Lindgren's film adaptations that brought Riedel's music into the hearts of children and adults alike. His compositions for "Pippi Långstrump" (Pippi Longstocking), "Emil i Lönneberga" (Emil of Lonneberga), and "Karlsson på taket" (Karlsson on the Roof) are among his most beloved, embedding his melodies into the cultural fabric of Sweden and beyond. The song "Idas sommarvisa" (Ida's Summer Song) from the stories of Emil and Ida from Lönneberga, in particular, became a staple in Swedish kindergartens and schools.

Riedel's passion for music extended beyond performance and composition. His dedication to jazz saw him contributing significantly to its growth in Scandinavia, mentoring young musicians and shaping the jazz scene with his innovative compositions and arrangements.