Jan Sandström: A Composer´s Portrait

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse musical landscape crafted by renowned Swedish composer Jan Sandström with his latest release, "Jan Sandström: A Composer's Portrait." This compelling album, released on May 9, 2023, under the European Gramophone label, offers a comprehensive journey through Sandström's unique compositional style, spanning a variety of genres and moods.

The album features an impressive array of 51 tracks, meticulously performed by esteemed musicians including Christian Lindberg, the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra, and Roland Pöntinen. With a duration of 54 minutes, "A Composer's Portrait" showcases Sandström's versatility and mastery, from the hauntingly beautiful "Sueño Macabros" to the uplifting "Ecos de Eternidad" and the serene "Song to Lotta."

One of the highlights of the album is the world premiere of the orchestral piece "Sueño Macabros," which was first performed by the ADDA Simfònica in Alicante under the direction of Christian Lindberg. This piece, along with others like "Ecos de Eternidad" and "A Christian Song," demonstrates Sandström's ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative.

The album also includes a unique arrangement of the traditional Swedish Christmas carol "Nu tändas tusen Juleljus," performed on the trombone, adding a touch of festive charm to the collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jan Sandström or a newcomer to his work, "A Composer's Portrait" is a captivating exploration of one of Sweden's most celebrated composers, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and styles that are sure to resonate with listeners.

9 mei 2023

2023 European Gramophone

About Jan Sandström

Jan Sandström is a prominent Swedish composer whose works have captivated audiences worldwide. Born in 1954 in Vilhelmina, Västerbotten County, Sandström's diverse musical styles and innovative compositions have made him one of the most performed Swedish composers on the international scene. His groundbreaking "Motorbike Concerto" for trombone and orchestra is a standout piece, with over 600 performances since its premiere in 1989. Sandström's repertoire spans various genres, including orchestral works, choral settings, operas, and ballets. Notable works include his choral setting of "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" and the opera "Macbeth2." Sandström studied composition under renowned figures like Gunnar Bucht and has been a professor of musical interpretation at Luleå University of Technology since 1989. His ability to blend emotional depth with technical brilliance makes his compositions both accessible and profound, appealing to a wide range of audiences.