Sandström: Sonnets of Darkness and Love

Album Description

Experience the profound and haunting beauty of Sven-David Sandström's final masterpiece, "Sandström: Sonnets of Darkness and Love," captured live in a powerful and intimate performance. This live album, recorded on October 18, 2018, showcases the extraordinary collaboration between trombone virtuoso Nils Landgren, the renowned Swedish Radio Choir, and conductor Kaspars Putniņš. Despite facing illness, Sandström swiftly completed this work, setting texts by literary giants such as Shakespeare, Lorca, and Nietzsche to his signature minimalist choral compositions.

"Sandström: Sonnets of Darkness and Love" is a testament to Sandström's genius, blending the rich textures of choral music with Landgren's soulful trombone and vocals. The album features 12 live tracks, including standout performances of "Full Many a Glorious Morning," "Being Your Slave," and "A Full Moon." Each piece is performed with a haunting beauty that resonates deeply, making this a live recording that stands out in the choral and minimalist genres.

The album, set for release on May 30, 2025, under the ACT Music label, is a must-experience for fans of classical, choral, and minimalist music. With a duration of 47 minutes, this live recording is a captivating journey through Sandström's final creative expressions, offering a unique blend of literary depth and musical brilliance.

May 30, 2025

2025 ACT Music + Vision GmbH & Co. KG

About Sven-David Sandström

Sven-David Sandström, born in Motala, Sweden, in 1942, was a prolific and renowned composer whose extensive catalog of over 600 works spans operas, oratorios, ballets, and choral pieces, showcasing his versatility and mastery of various musical forms. His studies in composition with Ingvar Lidholm at the Royal College of Music, coupled with his background in art history and musicology, laid a strong foundation for his distinctive musical voice. Sandström's "Requiem, Mute the Bereaved Memories Speak" (1979) is particularly notable, earning him widespread recognition and solidifying his status as one of Sweden's most celebrated composers. His works, characterized by their depth and emotional resonance, continue to captivate audiences and inspire musicians worldwide.