Bo Hansson initially composed in the styles of folk and jazz before turning to contemporary classical music in the early 1990s. His first choral composition, "Som när handen," won first prize in a national choral composition competition in 1993. Since then, he has created numerous works for a cappella choirs, as well as solo, chamber, and orchestral music.
Born in Kalmar in 1950, the Swedish composer studied guitar at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm. For several years, he arranged folk songs and popular pieces for choir, often including a guitar part. At the age of 35, Hansson developed a growing interest in musical composition and took private lessons with the Swedish composer Johan Hammerth. This led to his desire to write in a more contemporary classical style.
His characteristic musical expression is evident in colorful harmonies, constructed particularly with seconds and fourths. This harmonic language permeates his later works and establishes his distinctive musical voice. In "Som när handen," Hansson uses middle C almost like the point on the horizon from which the rising sun will appear. The sound quickly expands to a jubilant C major. The use of ostinatos and repeated motifs in all voices has also become another hallmark of his compositional style.
Hansson is considered one of Sweden's most versatile composers. His choral works are performed worldwide and have been presented by, among others, the Swedish Radio Choir. In 2005, the CD "Differences" was released, featuring a collection of his choral, solo, and chamber music works.