Bjarni Þorsteinsson

Bjarni Þorsteinsson was born in Hraunhreppur on Mýrum in 1861. He completed his pastoral degree from the Prestaskóli seminary in 1888. During his studies he was a town magistrate's clerk in Reykjavík, a part-time teacher at Latínuskólinn and a district clerk in Vatnsdal. Bjarni became a parish priest in the Hvanneyrar-prestakalli in Siglufjörður in 1888 and held that position until 1935. He studied music theory with Jónas Helgason and harmonium with Mrs. Anna Petersen. Bjarni was a pioneer in Icelandic musical life. He composed a number of well-known songs and had great influence on church singing throughout the country through his church choirs. However, his greatest legacy was his collection of folk songs, published in 1906-09 with support from the National Treasury and the Danish Carlsberg Fund. Bjarni held numerous positions of trust in his parish and was honored with the title of professor for his achievements. He died in 1938. (Source: Ísalög)