Album insights
Bo Hansson, born in Kalmar, started his professional music career as a choirboy in a church choir before studying guitar at the Royal Swedish Academy of Music in Stockholm. Teaching at Södra Latin High School, he collaborated with conductor Gary Graden to develop composition workshops for children. His diverse career includes working as a guitarist with various artists, forming the "Lammers and Hansson Guitar Duo." Over time, he transitioned to composing contemporary classical choral music, gaining acclaim for his pieces like "Som när handen." Inspired by Swedish folk songs, his compositions exhibit his love for melody and instrumental techniques.
Engaging deeply with vocal music, Hansson views vocal expression as a direct reflection of the soul. His compositions explore the multifaceted potential of choral voices, combining instrumental techniques with an expressive lyrical language. Through pieces like "Salve regina," which merges modal fragments with a Cantus planus-like melody, he creates a captivating blend of past and present in his music.
Another notable work, "Then I heard the singing," based on a text by Saint Bridget of Sweden, was created for the Choir of Royal Holloway. This piece captures a vivid image of the birth of Jesus as described by Saint Bridget in her visions, emphasizing themes of light and splendor.
Additionally, his composition "For as the rain," commissioned for a contemporary church music festival, showcases his evolving harmonic and tonal explorations. Through works like "Den plats bland träden," he reflects on modern life's transient nature, incorporating intricate vocal textures to elucidate poetic themes.
Hansson's venture into liturgical composition, like his Missa brevis, demonstrates a fragmentary yet harmonious approach with a focus on melodic evolution. Embracing sacred texts, he weaves complex harmonies and contrasting melodies in compositions like "Agnus Dei," juxtaposing atonal passages with serene moments.
Moreover, Psalm texts serve as vital inspiration for Hansson's choral works, emphasizing the diverse emotional landscape depicted in Psalms. Pieces like "Lighten mine eyes" and "Endless border" delve into themes of despair, faith, and redemption, crafting evocative musical narratives.
Bo Hansson's musical journey showcases a profound dedication to choral composition, blending tradition with innovation to create captivating and emotive works that resonate across diverse audiences.