Jaanson, Alfred

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Jaanson, Alfred

Janson, Alfred, Norwegian composer and pianist; b. Oslo, March 10, 1937. His mother, a piano teacher, oversaw his early music instruction. He later received some instruction in composition from Finn Mortensen. In 1962 he made his debut as a pianist in Oslo, and subsequently was frequently engaged in jazz settings. After composing in a decidedly contemporary idiom, his works took on more tonal leanings. His interest in jazz and electronics also played a role in his path as a composer.

Works

dramatic:Mot solen (Towards the Sun), ballet (1969); Et Fjelleventyret (A Mountain Adventure), opera (1970-73; Oslo, April 9, 1973); music for theater, films, and television. ORCH.: Construction and Hymn (1963); Canon for Chamber Orch. and 2 Tape Recorders (1965); Prelude for Violin and Orch. (1973–75); Mellomspill (1985); National Anthem (1988); Fragment for Cello and Orch. (1991); Norwegian Dance With Thanks to Rifarà Nordraak for Cornet and Strings (1996). CHAMBER: String Quartet (1978); Tarantella for Chamber Ensemble (1989). Piano: November 1962 (1962); Senza pédales (1992). VOCAL: Lullaby for Soprano and String Orch. (1963); Theme for Chorus, Organ, Percussion, and Piano (1966); Nocturne for Chorus, 2 Cellos, 2 Percussionists, and Harp, after Nietzsche (1967); Valse triste for Voice, Jazz Quintet, and Tape (1970); 3 Poems by Ebba Lindqvist for Chorus (1975–80); Hymn to Josef for Voice and Piano (1977); Errotikk og Pollitikk for Chorus, Organ, and Rhythmbox (1983); Wings for Chorus and Jazz Ensemble (1983); Sarabande for 2 Choruses and Instruments (1995). OTHER: Diaphony for 4 Wind Band Groups, Bugle Corps, 4 Percussionists, Dancers/Actors/Musicians, and Tape (1990; in collaboration with K. Kolberg and R. Wallin); Frieze of Life for Cello, Chorus, and Orch. (1998).