StenHanson
Biography
Sten Hanson (1936, Klövsjö, Sweden – 2013) was a Swedish composer, poet, and performance artist known for his groundbreaking work in the fields of text-sound composition and electroacoustic music.He began experimenting in the 1960s with the interplay between language and sound, creating pieces for live performance as well as for radio and television. In 1968, Hanson became a key member of Fylkingen, Sweden’s influential experimental arts collective, where he collaborated with other notable figures such as Bengt Emil Johnson, Lars Gunnar Bodin, Åke Hodell, and Ilmar Laaban. His focus on combining linguistic elements with electronic sound led him to develop a body of work that challenged traditional boundaries between poetry, composition, and technology. He also led the group's language section and helped organize the pioneering Text-Sound Festivals, which brought international attention to the genre. Beyond his artistic practice, Hanson was active in shaping the broader music community. He held leadership roles in several important institutions, including the Swedish Composers’ Union, where he served as chairman from 1985 to 1994. He was also involved with the International Society for Contemporary Music (ISCM) and was a member of the executive committee of the International Confederation of Electroacoustic Music (ICEM). In recognition of his achievements, he was elected to the Royal Swedish Academy of Music. Hanson’s work includes notable compositions like Che and The Sonosopher Retrospective, which illustrate his unique approach to combining spoken word with experimental audio. His recordings continue to be accessible on streaming platforms and remain influential in the fields of sound art and performance. Through his innovative techniques and dedication to cross-disciplinary exploration, Sten Hanson helped shape the evolution of sound poetry and experimental music, leaving a lasting impact on artists and composers across the world.
