Oskar Merikanto
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Oskar Merikanto (pronunciation ) (August 5, 1868 – February 17, 1924) was a Finnish musician and composer.
He was born to Swedish parents in Helsinki. His father, originally Frank Mattsson, changed the family name to sound more Finnish.
He was notable for his variety of talents – he gave concerts all around Finland, performing on the piano and organ, conducting orchestras, and composing original music. One of his most belowed compositions is a waltz Kesäillan valssi (Summernight's Waltz).
He died in Hausjärvi-Oiti.
His son Aarre Merikanto was also a notable composer.
[edit] Works
- Romanssi, Op. 12
- Pohjan neiti (Maiden of the North) (1898)
- Nälkämaan laulu (The Song of the Hungry) (1911)
- various pieces for organ, including "Wedding Hymn"
