Launy Grøndahl (1886-1960) was a Danish composer and conductor. He began his career at only thirteen as a violinist in the Orchestra of the Casino Theatre in Copenhagen, eventually going on to receive a broader musical education by traveling and studying throughout Vienna, Paris, and Italy. He composed a number of works, including a symphony, concertos for violin and bassoon, a violin sonata, and several pieces for piano. However, his most enduring work is the 1924 Trombone Concerto. Hailed for its lyricism and idiomatic writing for the instrument, it has become a staple in the trombone repertoire. 

Grøndahl is also celebrated for his thirty-one-year tenure as the music director of the Danish National Symphony, the country’s finest orchestra. He helped build the orchestra’s reputation from its conception, and is now considered a standout in the history of Danish composers. He is also known for his seminal recordings and interpretations of the symphonies of Danish composer Carl Nielsen, as well as the film score for the silent horror movie Häxan. Grøndahl died in 1960 after an accomplished career.