ASI Forum ?? "The Life and Music of Theodora Cormontan (1840-1922)"April 24, 2013 at 6:30–8:30 p.m.

At the April American Swedish Institute Forum, Bonnie and Michael Jorgensen present the life and music of the Norwegian-American composer Theodora Cormontan (1840-1922). Theodora emmigrated from her native Norway to south central Minnesota in 1887 and spent the next 30 years of her life there, until she moved to the Aase Haugen Home in Decorah, Iowa in 1917. Since rediscovering over 150 of her handwritten manuscript compositions in 2011 (in addition to a number of her published works), the Jorgensens have researched and rehearsed and are now ready to share a composer's story and artistic expression you won't soon forget. Bonnie portrays Theodora (an accomplished pianist), as Michael tells Theodora's story and sings in Norwegian and English.

Bonnie Jorgensen received degrees in both music and business administration from Indiana University, where she studied piano under Dr. Wallace Hornibrook. For over twenty years she has served as staff accompanist for Gustavus and Minnesota State University in Mankato. Michael Jorgensen received degrees in vocal performance from Indiana University, Northwestern University, and Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. This husband and wife team brings 35+ years of collaborative music-making experience to the keyboard and vocal works of Theodora Cormontan. Michael serves as a Professor of Music at Gustavus where he teaches voice and other music-related subjects.

Come early and grab dinner at FIKA, ASI's caf?? " you'll receive a coupon valid for 50% off a beverage before the talk when you check in at the reception desk. ASI Forum presentations are included with museum admission. Reservations for this event are encouraged, but not mandatory " call 612-871-4907.