This album brings together some of the finest pieces written for horn, showcasing the instrument's versatility and rich tonal palette. Included are works by notable composers like Kurt Atterberg, Lars-Erik Larsson, Max Reger, Mátyás Seiber, and Gordon Jacob.
Included Works
- Atterberg's Horn Concerto (1926): A robust and lyrical piece originally composed for Axel Malm, featuring piano and percussion alongside the horn and strings. Known for its challenging nature, it balances powerful signals with expressive melodies, embodying Nordic landscapes.
- Larsson's Horn Concertino: Part of a series of twelve concertinos, this work is frequently performed and consists of three movements. It combines lively rhythms and lyrical middle sections, sometimes using muted horn for dramatic effects.
- Reger's Scherzino: This piece starts with the horn in a secondary role but soon allows it to echo the romantic melodies introduced by the strings.
- Seiber's Notturno: Dedicated to Dennis Brain and the memory of Brahms, this rarely performed piece utilizes the full range of the horn, especially its lower register, to create a haunting and atmospheric experience.
- Jacob's Horn Concerto: Also written for Dennis Brain, it features virtuosic outer movements and a more contemplative middle section, making it both enjoyable and entertaining.
About Sören Hermansson
Sören Hermansson, born in 1956, is a renowned horn player from Sweden. He has studied with esteemed instructors in Stockholm, Amsterdam, and Berlin, and has performed as a soloist with various orchestras across Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. Hermansson is a dedicated chamber musician and teacher, currently part of the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra.
The Umeå Sinfonietta
Umeå Sinfonietta is one of Sweden's youngest professional orchestras, known for its youthful members and versatile performances. Established in 1979, the ensemble is actively involved in both symphonic and operatic productions, collaborating with Norrlandsoperan in Umeå. The Sinfonietta continues to grow and gain recognition, highlighted by a successful national tour in 1983.
