Most of Svendsen's musical activities, especially later in his career, revolved around composing and conducting. However, he was also a talented violinist. He received early training on the instrument from his father, and later studied at the Leipzig Conservatory under the famous violinist Ferdinand David. Svendsen also toured extensively as a violinist, and wrote an early concerto for his instrument (the Violin Concerto in A major, Op. 6).

After working out of Leipzig for several years, Svendsen returned to his hometown of Christiania, Norway; he served as conductor for the Christiania Music Association from 1872 to 1877. It was in Christiania that, in 1881, Svendsen wrote his Romance in G, a work that has remained one of his most popular compositions. It is a restrained and elegant piece of about seven minutes' duration which begins in a tranquil, nostalgic vein, with the violin spinning out a sweet tune. A couple of faster interludes add a slight note of anxiety which is resolved in the quiet, touching ending.

© Chris Morrison, All Music Guide