Thursday 18 January, SCCE and Team Sweden gathered at the Residence at the Embassy of Sweden in Tallinn and Kicked Off the New Year’s Business Season by going back to Sweden in general and Stockholm in particular during the 18^th century

Magnus Ullman - a Swedish lawyer and author, focusing on historical depictions and biographies – introduced us to Sweden and Stockholm during those times with the Swedish poet, songwriter, composer and performer Carl Michael Bellman (1740 – 1795) as the theme in his presentation.

The 18^th century was an expansive period in terms of Swedish commerce, trade and economy. The state focused on commerce, trade and industries with the ideas on merchantilism as a role model.

Bellman’s talents were however not connected to commerce, trade or economy. He became, and still is, a central figure in the Swedish song tradition and this evening we could both listen to and sing some of his epistles and songs together with Magnus Ullman, Karolina Ullman and Ain Agan on guitar.

It became a very nice and cozy Kick Off and on behalf of the SCCE, I would like to thank Magnus, Karolina and Ain for a great performance and musical leadership, and the team at the Embassy of Sweden for an excellent set up and a delicious Kick Off Buffet. Last, but not least, my thanks also go to our members who not only made the Kick Off take off, but also the songs of Carl Michael Bellman!

Sincerely,

Kristiina Sikk - SCCE Ombudsman