Sunday Sonata (2000)

Thomas Åberg (b. 1952) — Sunday Sonata (2000) for organ

Thomas Åberg (b. 1952) was born in Stockholm, Sweden and works there as composer, concert organist, and music administrator. Most of his works are written for the organ and are 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. 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.

The composer writes the following about this work:

"Sunday Sonata" (2000) was written during a period in which I totally immersed myself in minimalism. However, I tried to combine energy and melody, with the hope of not alienating listeners who might not be so accustomed to music in this style. This particular work has a bit of autumn melancholy and was written after a recital tour of upstate New York (USA) where all the trees were in their glorious autumn colors. I remember especially the small town of Olean and Bethany Lutheran Church as idyllic. The piece is dedicated to this church and my hosts, Mr. and Mrs. Curley, whom I visited many times.

Published by Svensk Musik (SMIC) (https://www.svenskmusik.org/en)