Fartein Valen, born on August 25, 1887, in Stavanger, Norway, was a seminal figure in Norwegian classical music, known for his unique approach to composition and his dedication to atonal and polyphonic music. Throughout his career, Valen remained an innovative composer, juxtaposing dissonance with harmonic transparency in a style that was quite distinctive, especially within the context of Norwegian music tradition. His works, characterized by their intricate polyphony and complex use of counterpoint, have influenced subsequent generations of composers.

Valen's oeuvre includes a rich variety of compositions such as symphonies, chamber music, piano pieces, and songs. Among his most significant works are his four symphonies, which are often considered as the cornerstone of his output, exploring and expanding the possibilities of orchestral sound with atonal structures. His contribution to chamber music is also profound, as seen in his string quartets, which brought Norwegian chamber music to new heights. Despite facing some initial resistance during his lifetime due to the avant-garde nature of his music, Valen's legacy continues to endure, and he is now recognized as one of the most important Norwegian composers of the 20th century. Fartein Valen's life as a composer spanned periods of both obscurity and reverence, ultimately securing his place in the canon of classical music. He passed away on December 14, 1952, in Haugesund, Norway.

Genres

Norwegian Classical

Serialism

Latest Release

Valen: Legende, Opus 1

Fartein Valen•

TrondheimSolistene

Single - Released May 14, 2021