During his lifetime, Otto Olsson had an international reputation as an organ composer, with most of his organ compositions released by foreign publishers.
Instruments
The organ in the Katarina Church, Stockholm, built in 1975-76, incorporates the elegant facade from the church's first organ built in 1751.
Composer Biography
Otto Olsson (1879-1964) was a central figure in Swedish church music, serving as organist of the Gustav Vasa church in Stockholm for almost fifty years.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Olsson's music was influenced by French late romantics like Charles-Marie Widor and César Franck, featuring rich harmony and sensual chromaticism, often mixed with older styles.
Compositional Technique
In his Ten Variations on 'Ave Maris Stella,' Op. 42, Otto Olsson treats the melody entirely in the original Dorian mode, avoiding any black keys on the keyboard.
Compositional Technique
Olsson's Three Etudes, Op. 45, demonstrate his pedagogical interest by strengthening technique through pieces like 'Sestetto,' which imitates a string sextet.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Otto Olsson was one of the first Swedish composers to incorporate Gregorian chant, with its archaic modes and mystical atmosphere, into his compositions.
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