During his lifetime, Fernström's music received critical acclaim and was frequently played by Swedish orchestras, though it was seldom played in the capital, Stockholm.
Composer Biography
John Fernström, the composer, was born in China, where his parents were missionaries, and did not begin studying music until he returned to Sweden at age 16.
Composer Biography
Fernström was a professional violinist and conductor for several decades in southern Sweden, and also founded the highly influential Nordic Youth Orchestra.
Composer's Artistic Vision
While his symphonies are tonal, some of Fernström's chamber music is completely atonal, showcasing his diverse compositional approach.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Fernström's early compositions aimed to combine impressionistically colored harmonies with classical forms, while later works sought a synthesis of contemporary musical trends.
Critical Reception
Fernström's traditional, post-romantic music, once considered modern, fell into obscurity in the 1960s and has only recently been rediscovered.
Composer Biography
Fernström was a prolific composer, writing twelve symphonies (though he burned the first one), which form the backbone of his extensive work.
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