Though Tor Aulin studied composition with Scharwenka, he early career focused on the violin, playing in orchestras, before forming the Aulin Quartet in 1887.

It became the first Swedish full-time quartet, gaining acclaim throughout Europe through to 1912 when the quartet disbanded.

From 1900 Aulin spent increasing time as both conductor and composer.

He conducted the main orchestras in Stockholm, and Gothenburg, and among many first performances included Berwald's "Sinfonie singulière".

His compositions included many works for orchestra and a considerable amount of chamber music.

Much was centred on the violin, including three concertos.