Toccata No. 6, “Sancta Clara” (1984)

Thomas Åberg (b. 1952) — Toccata No. 6, “Sancta Clara” (1984) for organ

“Toccata No. 6, ‘Sancta Clara’” (1984) was dedicated to the Swedish organist Per Thunarf (1941–2014) who was one of Åberg’s closest friends and collaborators. The subtitle refers to the church of Sancta Clara (Klara kyrka) in Stockholm where Thunarf was organist for more more than 30 years. Åberg’s close association with Thunarf, Sancta Clara Church, and the church’s Åkerman & Lund organ inspired a number of compositions. It was at Thunarf’s instigation that Åberg’s cycle of toccatas began in 1981. “Toccata No. 6” is one of the most joyous of the entire toccata series with its very optimistic harmonies and consistent rhythmic excitement. As in most of Åberg’s work, the expressive dimension is explored through modal shifts and juxtapositions.

Thomas Åberg (b. 1952) was born in Stockholm, Sweden and works there as composer and concert organist. Most of his works are written for the organ and are often characterized by their rhythmic joy, simplicity, and humor. He has stated that “music must bring enjoyment, without abandoning reverence,” and as such his style often uses the most basic of musical materials to create a discourse that is both spiritual and visceral. Åberg’s music speaks with a distinctly Swedish voice and emotional aesthetic, and since the early 1980s his works have become an important part of the Scandinavian organ literature. His music has been performed by organists at festivals throughout Europe, Asia, and the USA. He also tours regularly worldwide as concert organist with his own works. In December 2012, Carson Cooman released a CD (Legends in the Garden) devoted to Åberg’s organ compositions and has also recorded more than 70 other Åberg works for YouTube.

Published by Noteria (http://www.noteria.se)