Minna von Knorring (1846–1918) was a Finnish composer best known for her lyrical songs, which gained popularity in the early 20th century. Born in Vaasa into a noble family, she spent most of her life in Helsinki. Despite limited formal education due to illness, she remained artistically active throughout her life.
Her songs—often melancholic, melodic, and influenced by folk traditions—were performed by renowned singers such as Aino Ackté, Wäinö Sola, and Jenny Spennert. The widely loved Har du en vän was frequently performed and recorded in 1913. Some of her song texts were written by her nephew Hjalmar Procopé, while others were penned by von Knorring herself.
Though some of her scores were published under male arrangers' names, likely due to gender norms of the time, von Knorring’s creative voice remained distinct. In addition to songs, she composed a Nocturne for violin and piano (1910) and continued composing until her death in Helsinki at age 71.
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