Composer

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Otto Olsson

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Variations

Average_duration

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18:30

Otto Olsson's 'Variations (10) on Ave Maris Stella for organ, Op. 42' is a significant work in the organ repertoire. The piece was composed in 1921 and premiered the same year in Stockholm, Sweden. The work consists of ten variations on the hymn 'Ave Maris Stella,' which is a traditional Latin hymn that is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The first variation is a simple and straightforward presentation of the hymn melody. The second variation is more complex, with the melody presented in the pedal and accompanied by a flowing, arpeggiated figure in the manuals. The third variation is a lively and rhythmic scherzo, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a playful, syncopated figure in the pedal. The fourth variation is a gentle and lyrical setting of the hymn, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a soft, sustained chordal texture in the pedal. The fifth variation is a virtuosic toccata, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a fast, swirling figure in the pedal. The sixth variation is a quiet and introspective setting of the hymn, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a delicate, filigree-like texture in the pedal. The seventh variation is a grand and majestic setting of the hymn, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a powerful, full-bodied texture in the pedal. The eighth variation is a playful and whimsical setting of the hymn, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a light, staccato texture in the pedal. The ninth variation is a dark and brooding setting of the hymn, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a heavy, ominous texture in the pedal. The final variation is a triumphant and exultant setting of the hymn, with the melody presented in the manuals and accompanied by a full, rich texture in the pedal. The piece ends with a grand and majestic coda, bringing the work to a powerful and satisfying conclusion. Overall, 'Variations (10) on Ave Maris Stella for organ, Op. 42' is a masterful work that showcases Otto Olsson's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the organ as an instrument. The piece is notable for its wide range of moods and textures, as well as its virtuosic demands on the performer.

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