Lars-Erik Larsson occupied an important position in Swedish musical life, not least in his work for broadcasting, theatre and cinema. His style as a composer is eclectic – ranging from the late-Romantic to techniques derived from the 12-note system outlined by Schoenberg – but original in method.
Orchestral, Instrumental and Vocal Music
In addition to his symphonies for full orchestra, Larsson wrote a Sinfonietta for string orchestra and a popular Little Serenade for the same medium. He left a useful series of concertinos for solo instruments that include flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, saxophone, violin, viola, cello, double bass and piano. His Pastoral Suite is derived from a work that included a spoken text, an element exemplified in his 1940 God in Disguise for speaker, soloists, chorus and orchestra.