“Så skimrande var aldrig havet” celebrates the beauty of the sea, nature, and love. It is a love song in which the narrator shares a beautiful moment in nature with a loved one. The shimmering sea, the bright sky, and the peaceful surroundings all seem more beautiful because of the presence of the other person. The song is not only about the landscape, but also about how love makes the world feel more vivid and meaningful. The sea and nature symbolize peace, freedom, and the beauty of a treasured moment.

“Så skimrande var aldrig havet” is one of Sweden’s most beloved songs, written by the Swedish singer-songwriter Evert Taube. Its poetic lyrics and timeless melody have made it a true Swedish classic that is known and cherished across generations. For many Swedes, the song represents their deep connection to the coastline, the summer season, and the outdoors. The lyrics convey feelings of peace, longing, and gratitude for a precious shared moment. It is frequently performed at summer celebrations, weddings, concerts, and other meaningful occasions.

I can feel the sun and the warmth of the smooth rock, see the shimmering water, and hear the gentle lapping of the waves. Apart from that, there is only silence. That’s the ultimate feeling of summer for me. Sweden, with its long coastline and countless little islands, is truly a paradise.

Summer is also about listening to music and singing: at celebrations, during 'Music in the Summer Evening' concerts held in virtually every little church and in other beautiful places throughout the summer months. Evert Taube, along with many others, captured that feeling beautifully in both words and music. In Sweden, people simply love to sing.

My name is Eva Bengtsson. Who am I? That’s a good question, and not an easy one to answer. I’ve been a violinist with Phion, and before that with Het Gelders Orkest, for more than 30 years. I also enjoy playing chamber music.

Music and culture are my passions, and I’m fortunate to combine them in my work as a tour leader for Musico Reizen. I love spending time in nature. It’s an essential part of my life.

For me, summer means swimming in the sea, hiking, picking wild blueberries, and always bringing a picnic to enjoy outdoors. And then there’s the silence…