Valen, Fartein (Olav)

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Valen, Fartein (Olav) (b Stavanger, 1887; d Haugesund, 1952). Norweg. composer. Spent early years in Madagascar. Mus. librarian Oslo Univ. 1927–36. Came under influence of Schoenberg in 1913, and evolved own system of atonal polyphony. Wrote 5 syms. (5th unfinished); vn. conc.; pf. conc.; 2 str. qts.; Sonette di Michelangelo for orch.; 2 str. qts.; vn. sonata; pf. trio; 2 pf. sonatas; organ works; songs.

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