Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Norway

Birth

:

October 18, 1924 in Oslo, Norway

Death

:

February 5, 2013

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Keyboard

 

Egil Hovland was a Norwegian composer and organist who was born on October 18, 1924, in the town of Hardanger. He was the son of a farmer and grew up in a musical family. His father played the accordion, and his mother sang in the local choir. Hovland began playing the piano at a young age and showed a talent for music early on. Hovland's musical education began at the age of 16 when he started studying at the Bergen Music Conservatory. He studied composition with Bjarne Brustad and organ with Arild Sandvold. After completing his studies, Hovland became the organist at the Bergen Cathedral, a position he held for 20 years. During his time as the organist at the Bergen Cathedral, Hovland composed many works for the organ, including his most famous piece, "Fanfare and Chorale." This piece was written in 1953 and has become a staple of the organ repertoire. It is a powerful and majestic work that showcases the full range of the organ. In addition to his work as an organist, Hovland was also a prolific composer. He wrote music for a variety of ensembles, including orchestras, choirs, and chamber groups. His music is characterized by its clarity and simplicity, as well as its use of traditional forms and structures. One of Hovland's most significant works is his Symphony No. 1, which was written in 1958. This piece is a powerful and emotional work that reflects Hovland's deep love of his homeland. It is a four-movement work that is full of sweeping melodies and lush harmonies. Another notable work by Hovland is his "Nidaros Symphony," which was written in 1962. This piece was commissioned to celebrate the 900th anniversary of the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway. It is a grand and majestic work that features a large orchestra and choir. Hovland's music was not only popular in Norway but also gained international recognition. His works were performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world, and he received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music. In addition to his work as a composer and organist, Hovland was also a teacher. He taught at the Bergen Music Conservatory and the Oslo Music Conservatory, where he had a significant impact on the next generation of Norwegian composers. Hovland passed away on December 5, 2013, at the age of 89. His legacy as a composer and organist lives on through his music, which continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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