In this interview, Erik Lundahl reflects on his musical background, influences, and approach to music education. He discusses the music that has shaped his artistic thinking, from The Beatles and Erykah Badu to electronic and popular music, and explains how creativity and students’ own musical interests influence his teaching. For Erik, being a teacher comes first, and his approach focuses on helping students develop their creativity while acquiring the musical skills needed to bring their ideas to life.
Can you introduce yourself and describe one defining characteristic of music education in your country today?
| My name is Erik Lundahl – I am a music teacher, musician, music producer, and songwriter, with a strong pedagogical interest in electronic music and in students’ own musical interests. In Sweden today, music education is strongly shaped by a blend of tradition: everything from choir singing and classical instruments to more modern elements such as rock bands, electronic music-making, and a great deal of creativity. |
Which artist, composer, or musical tradition has most shaped your musical thinking, and why?
| I have come to realize that, since childhood, I have always listened very closely and in great detail to the music I enjoy. The nuances in a pop production, or the raw emotional energy in harder rock music, have shaped my musical thinking. I tend to focus on the small details that ultimately form the larger whole that I appreciate so much. Technical virtuosity and instrumental skill have also inspired me greatly and continue to influence how I approach my own musical performance. |
“I see myself as a teacher first, and a music teacher second.”
If you could bring five musical works to a desert island, what would they be, and what does this choice reveal about you as a music educator?
| That’s very difficult to answer, but if I try, I first think of the live album by Erykah Badu. Then I would probably include as large a collection of The Beatles’ songs as possible. Some Coldplay music, Hurricane Bar by Mando Diao, and finally something in Swedish—preferably Veronica Maggio. I would also have to include Avicii. I believe this tells that I enjoy popular music and music that has been trendsetting. As a music teacher, it perhaps reflects my focus on creativity and artistic creation rather than craftsmanship. Or rather, musical craftsmanship is very important, but I prefer to work in the opposite direction: starting with creativity, and then learning the craft needed to realize what has been created. |
What aspect of teaching music continues to motivate you most, even after challenging days?
| 100% my students. I see myself as a teacher first, and a music teacher second. |