Born in Stockholm on 6th May 1913, he studied the piano at the then Stockholm Conservatory with Olof Wibergh and Algot Haquinius as his teachers. Haquinius also taught Ahlberg counterpoint and composition. Ahlberg’s début as a pianist came in 1938. In addition to studying music he also took a law degree which became the basis for his administrative career in the State Medical and Social Boards.

Ahlberg’s knowledge of the piano has been utilised in several compositions. For example, he has written a piano concerto and two piano sonatas. His piano suite (1969) has also been performed internationally. He himself divides his career into two periods, the first of which came during the forties and fifties, while the other began in the 1970s. In addition to works including the piano, Ahlberg has composed two string quartets. His music is often rhythmical and dance-like in character, elegantly melodious and sometimes strictly contrapuntal, and he is adept at evoking an entertaining atmosphere.
Stig Jacobsson