Dreams (1976/80)

Thomas Åberg (b. 1952) — Dreams (1976/80) for organ

“Dreams” (1976/80) is the only surviving piece in Åberg’s catalog from his avant-garde style of the 1970s, and as such it is quite different from his other works. His music from this period employed material built from tone clusters, elements of graphical notation, and a more experimental framework. In the 1980s, Åberg began writing with more conventional musical materials (albeit often used in unconventional ways). As to why this particular work remains, the composer writes: “I have mixed feeling about these early works, but at the same time I remember that this was my mother’s favorite piece of mine during all her years. So nowadays I perform this piece to the memory of her.”

The work is a fantasy piece and is marked “like a man sleeping.” In the beginning, we hear the quiet breathing. As the sleeper falls into deeper and deeper dreams, the music becomes more intense, climaxing in a very dramatic passage (perhaps even a nightmare?). The music ends as it began, with the quiet breathing.

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.

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