The Other Swedes"
~ Honoring Them and Their Works ~
Dr. Emory K. Lindquist
1984 "Hagbard Brase, Beloved Music Master"
~ The Words of Dr. Emory K. Lindquist
A music critic described his achievements during those years in the following words:
"To Dr. Brase's splendid musical training and ideals the Oratorio Society owes its rank among the finest choruses of the world."
Carol N. Anderson, Bethany Graduate and well-known Kansas choral conductor, urged me in the first instance to write this biography.
~ Honoring Them and Their Works ~
Dr. Emory K. Lindquist
1984 "Hagbard Brase, Beloved Music Master"
~ The Words of Dr. Emory K. Lindquist
A music critic described his achievements during those years in the following words:
"To Dr. Brase's splendid musical training and ideals the Oratorio Society owes its rank among the finest choruses of the world."
Carol N. Anderson, Bethany Graduate and well-known Kansas choral conductor, urged me in the first instance to write this biography.
Dr. Hagbard Brase, conductor of one of the most renown oratorio choruses in the world of the early years of the 20th century, had to be remembered in the printed word for posterity and perpetuity. And, it was Dr. Lindquist who was inspired and compelled to write this most important Swedish and Swedish American story, on a most humble servant but grand music master Swedish pioneer who made Lindsborg his home and Bethany College his place for his work, arriving there in 1900 with his wife-to-be, Minna, fresh from Sweden.
This is the only comprehensive book on Dr. Hagbard Brase and on the history of the Messiah performances. It is a "classic" and is a "must read" for Kansas Smoky Valley music educators, Bethany College music professors, Swedish University music scholars interested in these renown Messiah performances with Dr. Brase conducting them during the late 19th century continuing to the mid 20th century.
Hagbard Brase, Beloved Music Master should be preserved for posterity and perpetuity by having it digitalized!
Like Dr. Lindquist's other books, Hagbard Brase is characterized by "extensive" research and "extensive" documentation: "Endnotes," "Selected Biography" and "Index."
As a "last living link" as a student, colleague and friend of Dr. Brase and having sung in the Messiah and St. Matthew Passion performances, Dr. Lindquist writes his compassionate and well researched story on one of America's last of "the finest type of European music masters to raise his baton at Lindsborg Bethany College's Messiah for the last time. *
In his 1953 Smoky Valley People, Dr. Lindquist devotes 18 significant pages in his chapter "The Lindsborg Messiah." Here he begins, "IN SMALL town community achievement, Lindsborg has a record of distinction that has brought recognition throughout the nation and in many parts of the world. The uniqueness of this town of 2000 residents in Central Kansas is associated generally with the glorious "Messiah" tradition of Holy Week and the achievement of Bethany College in cultural and religious values. In his 1975 Bethany in Kansas, he devoted 24 pages in his chapter "The Lindsborg 'Messiah' Tradition," beginning with: "The achievement in music and art has identified Bethany College as a unique and distinctive collegiate institution with great cultural resources. National attention has come to the College and to the Lindsborg community through the annual "Messiah" Festival and the Mid-West Art Exhibition during Holy Week. Thousands of people have made annual pilgrimages to the Smoky Valley of Central Kansas for decades in order to share in these religious and cultural events."
The great Lindsborg "Messiah" tradition is the "grand background" for Dr. Lindquist's "grand foreground" of his insightful biography on his former professor, colleague and friend of Bethany College "Hagbard Brase, Beloved Music Master."
Below are found Dr. Lindquist words of great respect on Dr. Hagbard Brase. From his Dedication," to the "Book Cover," the "Preface and Acknowledgements," the last chapter, "The Years in Retrospect" followed by the "Content." Another section provides a drafted "List of Illustrations" that are within the "Contents."
Dr. Lindquist's dedication in the book, formatted exactly as shown below:
This is the only comprehensive book on Dr. Hagbard Brase and on the history of the Messiah performances. It is a "classic" and is a "must read" for Kansas Smoky Valley music educators, Bethany College music professors, Swedish University music scholars interested in these renown Messiah performances with Dr. Brase conducting them during the late 19th century continuing to the mid 20th century.
Hagbard Brase, Beloved Music Master should be preserved for posterity and perpetuity by having it digitalized!
Like Dr. Lindquist's other books, Hagbard Brase is characterized by "extensive" research and "extensive" documentation: "Endnotes," "Selected Biography" and "Index."
As a "last living link" as a student, colleague and friend of Dr. Brase and having sung in the Messiah and St. Matthew Passion performances, Dr. Lindquist writes his compassionate and well researched story on one of America's last of "the finest type of European music masters to raise his baton at Lindsborg Bethany College's Messiah for the last time. *
In his 1953 Smoky Valley People, Dr. Lindquist devotes 18 significant pages in his chapter "The Lindsborg Messiah." Here he begins, "IN SMALL town community achievement, Lindsborg has a record of distinction that has brought recognition throughout the nation and in many parts of the world. The uniqueness of this town of 2000 residents in Central Kansas is associated generally with the glorious "Messiah" tradition of Holy Week and the achievement of Bethany College in cultural and religious values. In his 1975 Bethany in Kansas, he devoted 24 pages in his chapter "The Lindsborg 'Messiah' Tradition," beginning with: "The achievement in music and art has identified Bethany College as a unique and distinctive collegiate institution with great cultural resources. National attention has come to the College and to the Lindsborg community through the annual "Messiah" Festival and the Mid-West Art Exhibition during Holy Week. Thousands of people have made annual pilgrimages to the Smoky Valley of Central Kansas for decades in order to share in these religious and cultural events."
The great Lindsborg "Messiah" tradition is the "grand background" for Dr. Lindquist's "grand foreground" of his insightful biography on his former professor, colleague and friend of Bethany College "Hagbard Brase, Beloved Music Master."
Below are found Dr. Lindquist words of great respect on Dr. Hagbard Brase. From his Dedication," to the "Book Cover," the "Preface and Acknowledgements," the last chapter, "The Years in Retrospect" followed by the "Content." Another section provides a drafted "List of Illustrations" that are within the "Contents."
Dr. Lindquist's dedication in the book, formatted exactly as shown below:
* * *
Dedicated
to the members of the Bethany College Oratorio Society
who shared with Hagbard Brase in the great
Lindsborg Oratorio Tradition.
* * *
Dedicated
to the members of the Bethany College Oratorio Society
who shared with Hagbard Brase in the great
Lindsborg Oratorio Tradition.
* * *
Book Cover
"The lengthening shadow of the life of the beloved music master in Lindsborg, Kansas – Dr. Hagbard Brase (1877-1953) – continues to inspire generations of admires who knew him personally.
"Additional numbers greatly appreciate the legacy of his musical, spiritual, academic, and personal contributions to Bethany College, his students, his church, the Bethany College Oratorio Society for which he was a conductor for 31 years, and other ensembles including the Bethany College Choir which he founded in 1935. Those who are conversant with his musical compositions, those who have heard him perform on organ, those who knew Brase as a family man, and those who realized that both institutions and individuals today have a better life because of what he did and what he was some decades ago, are full of gratitude for his life‘s work.
"This volume by Dr. Emory Lindquist is a sensitive, understanding, personable, and thorough portrayal of Dr. Brase based on first-hand knowledge and extensive research.
"Hagbard Brase was born in the Swedish parish of Råda in the beautiful province of Västergötland on September 25, 1877; he studied at Skara and Stockholm in Sweden; he immigrated to America in October 1900 and married his Swedish sweetheart in Lindsborg the following year; and, except for a brief visit in Sweden, he devoted his career for more than a half a century to the many aspects of life in and around Lindsborg.
"The man, a giant in cultural achievement, completed his life journey quietly as he died in his home near the campus of Bethany College on the morning of March 18, 1953. The Oratorio Society appropriately presented selections from Handel's Messiah and Bach's Saint Matthews Passion as part of the memorial service in the college's Presser Auditorium to help mark the end of a pilgrimage which certainly was lived fully and victoriously.
"Additional numbers greatly appreciate the legacy of his musical, spiritual, academic, and personal contributions to Bethany College, his students, his church, the Bethany College Oratorio Society for which he was a conductor for 31 years, and other ensembles including the Bethany College Choir which he founded in 1935. Those who are conversant with his musical compositions, those who have heard him perform on organ, those who knew Brase as a family man, and those who realized that both institutions and individuals today have a better life because of what he did and what he was some decades ago, are full of gratitude for his life‘s work.
"This volume by Dr. Emory Lindquist is a sensitive, understanding, personable, and thorough portrayal of Dr. Brase based on first-hand knowledge and extensive research.
"Hagbard Brase was born in the Swedish parish of Råda in the beautiful province of Västergötland on September 25, 1877; he studied at Skara and Stockholm in Sweden; he immigrated to America in October 1900 and married his Swedish sweetheart in Lindsborg the following year; and, except for a brief visit in Sweden, he devoted his career for more than a half a century to the many aspects of life in and around Lindsborg.
"The man, a giant in cultural achievement, completed his life journey quietly as he died in his home near the campus of Bethany College on the morning of March 18, 1953. The Oratorio Society appropriately presented selections from Handel's Messiah and Bach's Saint Matthews Passion as part of the memorial service in the college's Presser Auditorium to help mark the end of a pilgrimage which certainly was lived fully and victoriously.
Preface
[With Acknowledgements]
[With Acknowledgements]
[Preface]
"The life and career of Hagbard Brase, famous oratorio society conductor, teacher, organist and composer at Bethany College for more than half a century, provides another fine example of the legacy that talented and dedicated sons and daughters of Europe have contributed to American life. The new world offered challenges and opportunities to which he responded with gratifying results.
"Following studies at Skara School and the Royal Conservatory of Music, Stockholm, Hagbard Brase emigrated to Lindsborg, Kansas, in 1900. Although the young man in his early 20s found himself in a milieu quite different from that of Skara and Stockholm in Sweden, his fine personal qualities and talents were soon recognized and appreciated. He began a career at Bethany College which lasted as long as life itself.
"Paramount in Hagbard Brase's life work was his distinguished service to the Bethany College Oratorio Society, often referred to as the Lindsborg "Messiah Chorus." He was organist from 1900 to 1914 and then director for more than three decades until retirement in 1946. A music critic described his achievements during those years in the following words: "To Dr. Brase's splendid musical training and ideals the Oratorio Society owes its rank among the finest choruses of the world."
"Hagbard Brase was also an inspiring teacher, a fine organist and a talented composer. This beloved music master was a man of keen intelligence, true sensitivity, broad culture and high ideals. Hagbard Brase was a deeply religious man who shared firm but quiet views of life's greatest values. Although he never lost the distinctive qualities of his European background, he fully understood the problems and aspirations of his new homeland. He was an unforgettable person who generated esteem and respect. Family, friends, and admirers in large numbers hold him in kindly remembrances.
"The papers of Hagberg Brase provide rewarding sources for study. Included are letters to and from members of his family, friends and associates in Sweden and America; lectures on conducting an oratorio chorus, the meaning of Bach's The Passion of our Lord According to Saint Matthew, the origin, development and importance of church music; and an intimate description of vital religious experience. The principal source in the Brase papers is his remembrances of the years he recorded for his family in 1945 in the form of "Memoirs."
"The life of Hagbard Brase was immensely enriched through a fine family. Only one year pass between the arrival of Brase in Lindsborg and his marriage there to Minna Hernwall, Halmstad, his Swedish fiancé. They shared the problems of adaptation to the new milieu, which at times resulted in acute longing for home (hemlangtän). The future assumed new dimensions of interest and meaning as the family circle included five children -- Thorborg, Karin, Yngve, Sonja and Ingrid. These resources were expanded and enriched with the passing of the years and the addition of spouses and grandchildren. In the twilight years of life there was a sense of belonging to the future for Hagbard and Minna Brase.
[Acknowledgements]
"In the context of the above factors the research and writing of this volume was a pleasant and gratifying experience. In addition to the availability of extensive Brase family papers, generous responses to interviews by members of the family greatly enriched the sources of information. Kenneth W. Willey, a son-in-law of Hagbard and Minna Brase was an especially vital force of initiating and developing this biography.
"Several persons in Sweden provided helpful guidance and information. Included among them are Rektor Arne Palmqvist, Skara School, Rektor Harald Ryfors, Göteborg, a nephew of Hagbard Brase, Fil. lic. Ola Christensson, a librarian at Göteborg University and Karen Stenfors, Stockholm. Dixie Lanning, Librarian of Bethany College and Dr. Eugene Holdsworth, Music Department Head, assisted in various ways. Eighteen former Brase students presented at my request valuable "Remembrances of Hagbard Brase." Their names are cited in the text where they are quoted. Carol N. Anderson, Bethany Graduate and well-known Kansas choral conductor, urged me in the first instance to write this biography.
"I am thankful for the fine assistance of two former students of Dr. Brase. Neloise Hodges Stapp is a graduate of Bethany College and a former member of the music faculty. Lambert Dahlsten, also a Bethany alumnus and Emeritus Professor of Piano and Organ, is the organist for the Oratorio Society, a position which he has held with distinction for more than three decades. They have not only provided valuable understanding of their former teacher, but they have read and discussed the manuscript with me, thus eliminating errors and enriching the contents. I also greatly appreciated the helpful suggestions made by Dr. Delmar C. Homan, the Margaret H. Mountcastle Distingushed Professor of Humanities at Bethany College.
"Lauran Elmquist Lofgren and Jane Asche at Bethany College prepared the manuscript for publication with great skill and understanding. I thank both of them for their fine service.
"The dedicatory poem by Jessie Lofgren Kraft, "The Messiah," was first published in Overton by Exposition Press, New York, 1947, and it is reprinted with permission.
"It is a pleasure to have this volume published by the Bethany College Press. In this relationship and others, I am grateful to Dr. Peter Ristuben, President of Bethany College, for his personal interest and support. Finally, I express hardy appreciation to A. John Pearson, Director of Public Relations, Bethany College, who has been a wise advisor and a knowledgeable editor.
"The pages that follow are designed to describe the main aspects of the life and contribution of Hagbard Brase who's gracious spirit and distinguished achievement have provided a precious legacy for succeeding generations. Errors and omissions are the responsibility of the author."
"The life and career of Hagbard Brase, famous oratorio society conductor, teacher, organist and composer at Bethany College for more than half a century, provides another fine example of the legacy that talented and dedicated sons and daughters of Europe have contributed to American life. The new world offered challenges and opportunities to which he responded with gratifying results.
"Following studies at Skara School and the Royal Conservatory of Music, Stockholm, Hagbard Brase emigrated to Lindsborg, Kansas, in 1900. Although the young man in his early 20s found himself in a milieu quite different from that of Skara and Stockholm in Sweden, his fine personal qualities and talents were soon recognized and appreciated. He began a career at Bethany College which lasted as long as life itself.
"Paramount in Hagbard Brase's life work was his distinguished service to the Bethany College Oratorio Society, often referred to as the Lindsborg "Messiah Chorus." He was organist from 1900 to 1914 and then director for more than three decades until retirement in 1946. A music critic described his achievements during those years in the following words: "To Dr. Brase's splendid musical training and ideals the Oratorio Society owes its rank among the finest choruses of the world."
"Hagbard Brase was also an inspiring teacher, a fine organist and a talented composer. This beloved music master was a man of keen intelligence, true sensitivity, broad culture and high ideals. Hagbard Brase was a deeply religious man who shared firm but quiet views of life's greatest values. Although he never lost the distinctive qualities of his European background, he fully understood the problems and aspirations of his new homeland. He was an unforgettable person who generated esteem and respect. Family, friends, and admirers in large numbers hold him in kindly remembrances.
"The papers of Hagberg Brase provide rewarding sources for study. Included are letters to and from members of his family, friends and associates in Sweden and America; lectures on conducting an oratorio chorus, the meaning of Bach's The Passion of our Lord According to Saint Matthew, the origin, development and importance of church music; and an intimate description of vital religious experience. The principal source in the Brase papers is his remembrances of the years he recorded for his family in 1945 in the form of "Memoirs."
"The life of Hagbard Brase was immensely enriched through a fine family. Only one year pass between the arrival of Brase in Lindsborg and his marriage there to Minna Hernwall, Halmstad, his Swedish fiancé. They shared the problems of adaptation to the new milieu, which at times resulted in acute longing for home (hemlangtän). The future assumed new dimensions of interest and meaning as the family circle included five children -- Thorborg, Karin, Yngve, Sonja and Ingrid. These resources were expanded and enriched with the passing of the years and the addition of spouses and grandchildren. In the twilight years of life there was a sense of belonging to the future for Hagbard and Minna Brase.
[Acknowledgements]
"In the context of the above factors the research and writing of this volume was a pleasant and gratifying experience. In addition to the availability of extensive Brase family papers, generous responses to interviews by members of the family greatly enriched the sources of information. Kenneth W. Willey, a son-in-law of Hagbard and Minna Brase was an especially vital force of initiating and developing this biography.
"Several persons in Sweden provided helpful guidance and information. Included among them are Rektor Arne Palmqvist, Skara School, Rektor Harald Ryfors, Göteborg, a nephew of Hagbard Brase, Fil. lic. Ola Christensson, a librarian at Göteborg University and Karen Stenfors, Stockholm. Dixie Lanning, Librarian of Bethany College and Dr. Eugene Holdsworth, Music Department Head, assisted in various ways. Eighteen former Brase students presented at my request valuable "Remembrances of Hagbard Brase." Their names are cited in the text where they are quoted. Carol N. Anderson, Bethany Graduate and well-known Kansas choral conductor, urged me in the first instance to write this biography.
"I am thankful for the fine assistance of two former students of Dr. Brase. Neloise Hodges Stapp is a graduate of Bethany College and a former member of the music faculty. Lambert Dahlsten, also a Bethany alumnus and Emeritus Professor of Piano and Organ, is the organist for the Oratorio Society, a position which he has held with distinction for more than three decades. They have not only provided valuable understanding of their former teacher, but they have read and discussed the manuscript with me, thus eliminating errors and enriching the contents. I also greatly appreciated the helpful suggestions made by Dr. Delmar C. Homan, the Margaret H. Mountcastle Distingushed Professor of Humanities at Bethany College.
"Lauran Elmquist Lofgren and Jane Asche at Bethany College prepared the manuscript for publication with great skill and understanding. I thank both of them for their fine service.
"The dedicatory poem by Jessie Lofgren Kraft, "The Messiah," was first published in Overton by Exposition Press, New York, 1947, and it is reprinted with permission.
"It is a pleasure to have this volume published by the Bethany College Press. In this relationship and others, I am grateful to Dr. Peter Ristuben, President of Bethany College, for his personal interest and support. Finally, I express hardy appreciation to A. John Pearson, Director of Public Relations, Bethany College, who has been a wise advisor and a knowledgeable editor.
"The pages that follow are designed to describe the main aspects of the life and contribution of Hagbard Brase who's gracious spirit and distinguished achievement have provided a precious legacy for succeeding generations. Errors and omissions are the responsibility of the author."
The Years in Retrospect
Chapter XI
Chapter XI
"People who knew Hagbard Brase have the clear image of a man of great dignity, walking slowly with measured steps, or on other occasions, standing erect, in control of himself and the situation whether before a chorus of hundreds of members or in conversation with a few people. A tall man, he was high waisted, of less than average weight perhaps, with a rather large frame. Quite bald in early middle years, he had a small mustache and goatee that turned white. His eyes were penetrating but friendly; he possessed a deep, resonant bass voice which produce a distinctive Swedish accent when he spoke English. His arms were long, hands large, the fingers narrowly tapered, created for a keyboard.
"A natural courtesy characterized Hagbard Brase as a gentleman. He was a model of politeness. When walking and meeting a woman, he raised his hat saying, "Good morning," or "How-do-you-do," never "Hello." In manner of life and thought he reflected the best of Old World culture. Outwardly he seemed quite austere and reserved but he was actually a congenial and responsive person with a keen interest in people and their problems. He possessed an unusual capacity for gratitude--great appreciation even for small favors.
"In conversation Hagbard Brase was a good listener, and when in agreement with his counterpart he used the word, "surely." His rate of speaking was slow and deliberate; he was thoughtful, there was never anything casual or cavalier in his speech although he had a good sense of humor. As a participant in conversation he was well informed both in questions and comments. He was a kind associate, a true friend, and an unforgettable character who generated esteem and respect.
"Dedication to professional responsibilities and to his family occupied Dr. Brase fully but he managed to devote some time to personal interests and hobbies. He continued the physical exercise program associated with the name of Per Henrik Ling, famous Swedish gymnast, which he had learned in the land of his birth. A period was used each morning for this purpose. He often played solitaire at his home at his desk for relaxation. On Sunday afternoons and during evenings on other days, whenever his schedule made it possible, he listened to radio concerts by the New York Philharmonic or other musical groups and to phonographic recordings, often with the aid of the orchestral or other score. Troubled by insomnia, he passed the hours reading history books or studying the scores of sonatas or symphonies. Dr. Brase was an avid reader; often Toy, Minna's dog, sat in his lap, as they both enjoyed mutual quiet contentment.
"Gardening was a hobby which Hagbard Brase thoroughly enjoyed. At Skara laroverk extensive studies in botany were required, including passing an examination in the Latin and Swedish names of hundreds of flowers and plants in the tradition of Linné, famous Swedish botanist. Love of nature was a great personal resource for the Lindsborg professor and musician. The importance of gardening was expressed in his autobiographical article in the series published by Morgontidningen, Göteborg in 1937: 'My home and my garden are my hobbies. I do not always beat time with the baton; for a change I cut grass. When it becomes fatiguing to dig in music scores, I get pleasure from digging in the earth.' He faithfully kept a garden diary with records of planting, growth progress, blooms, etc.
"A detailed description of Brase's garden was printed in the Kansas City Star in 1937 after a visit by the writer. 'On the sloping ground ...glassbeads. June Currier Holmes observation in The Lindsborg News-Record: 'It comes to mind that those trees in the Brase garden might reflect the sensitive taste for the beauty in nature as well as in music of Dr. Brase who planted them.' [In the next paragraph is revealed that his only son Yngve felt that his relationship with his father came together as they gardened together.]
"Astronomy was another of Hagbard Brase interests and hobbies. He did much reading on the subject. The children were delighted when he described for them the beauty and mystery of the universe above them in the clear night sky.
"As years past, the great career of Hagbard Brase was recognized by the award of special honors. On May 31, 1932, Augustana College and Theological Seminary, Rock Island, Illinois, awarded him the degree of Doctor of Music, honoris causa, for his distinguished service to music as a teacher, conductor, performer and composer.
"The trip to Rock Island . . .[paragraph about the car accident is not included.]
"In October 1947 more than 200 persons assembled on the campus of Bethany College for a festive dinner occasion honoring Hagbard Brase. Gösta Oldenburg, Swedish Royal Consul General from Chicago, conferred upon Dr. Brase the title and insignia that created him a Knight of the Royal Order of Vasa on behalf of King Gustaf V of Sweden. The royal award, founded in the reign of Gustavus III in 1772, is conferred upon persons who have distinguished themselves in a variety of areas of service in the Swedish or Swedish-American context. This was an additional recognition of Hagbard's achievement in music. When Consul General Oldenburg presented Dr. Brase with this honor, the Bethany professor was greeted by a standing ovation.
"The Hagbard Brase Memorial Scholarship was established at Bethany College as a means of honoring Dr. Brase and assisting continuing generations of students.
"Dr. Brase maintained a number of professional memberships through his career. Included were memberships in the America Guild of Organists, the New Bach Society of Leipzig, Camma Mu chapter of the Sinfonia Fraternity of America and other organizations.
"Hagbard Brase asked to be relieved of his position as director of the Bethany College Oratorio Society, as already indicated, following the 1946 festival season. He was Director Emeritus 1947-53. Brase conducted the capella choir until the end of the academic year 1948. He continued to teach theory classes and organ full-time until shortly before his death in 1953. He was a part-time faculty member for a brief period.
"When years and decades accumulate it is a common experience of those who are in that period of life to reflect upon early years and the passing of time. Hagbard Brase did just that in correspondence with Samuel Landtmanson, a boyhood friend from Skara. In 1947 he wrote to Samuel: 'This so-called American work tempo has slowed down somewhat for me and I can reflect on my years in America.'
[Skipping several paragraphs to paragraph concerning Dr. Brase's death on Wednesday morning. March 18, 1953,]
"When faculty members and students assembled for the daily Chapel service that morning, they learned with deep sorrow about Dr. Brase's death. There was complete silence in the Chapel as Rev. Emmet Eklund, college professor, announced the passing of Bethany's great teacher and conductor. At the Brase home there was grief, dignity and poise, also as Mrs. Brase talked quietly with Dr. William Holwerda, family physician, and Emory Lindquist, president of the college. Soon members of the family and friends came to face together a world in which Hagbard Brase was not present to share life directly with them.
"A large congregation of friends and admirers of Hagbard Brase joined the family in impressive memorial services in the auditorium of Pressor Hall on Sunday afternoon, March 22, 1953. There were many remembrances of Hagbard Brase coming unostentatiously to the podium, picking up the baton with quiet confidence, nodding to the concertmaster, after which were heard the strains of the "Overture" to Handel's Messiah. There were memories of those critical few minutes at each performance as the singers keyed up for No. 4, the first chorus selection, with eyes fastened upon the director, waiting for the signal to arise in unison, playing of the first 10 measures of the introduction by the orchestra, and then the auditorium resounding with the words of Isaiah set to music, "And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed." The chorus and the audience that March day 1953 had been participants in a great tradition with a beloved music master who would not raise his baton again.
The memorial service was conducted by friends and associates. The Reverend Ervin C. Malm, pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church in which Dr. Brase had been a member since 1900, preached the sermon. Dr Emory Lindquist, president of Bethany College, spoke words of tribute; the Reverend Emmet Eklund, College pastor, and Dr. William Clark, a friend also participated in the service.
The oratorio society, with deep feeling, presented 4 selections. Some of the singers had been in the chorus continuously since that day in 1915 when Hagbard Brase directed for the first time. A kindly spirit hovered over the audience in Presser Hall as the chorus sang Dr. Brase's favorites--'Surely, He Hath Borne Our Griefs and Carried Our Sorrows.' from Messiah, and from the St. Matthew Passion, 'Our Sorrows Thou Art Bearing,' 'When Life Begins To Fail Me,' 'Here Yet Awhile.' Rolf Espeseth conducted the chorus and orchestra, Lloyd Spear was concertmaster and Lambert Dahlsten was at the organ.
A large funeral cortege joined the family for graveside services at Elmwood Cemetery, a short distance east of Lindsborg. Casket bearers were colleagues at Bethany College. The burial rites were conducted by Pastor Malm in the liturgy of the Augustana Lutheran Church, an English translation of the Church of Sweden's order of service. On Saturday evening the sound of the bells in the spire of the Bethany Church, which can be seen on the western horizon, reach this resting place and the chimes of the Messiah Lutheran Church bring the message of Christian hymnody, including familiar hymns from the old homeland across the Atlantic Ocean.
Hagbard Brase began his earthly pilgrimage at Råda in Västergötland and the end was at Lindsborg in the Smoky Valley of Central Kansas. It was a journey that was lived fully and victoriously.
"A natural courtesy characterized Hagbard Brase as a gentleman. He was a model of politeness. When walking and meeting a woman, he raised his hat saying, "Good morning," or "How-do-you-do," never "Hello." In manner of life and thought he reflected the best of Old World culture. Outwardly he seemed quite austere and reserved but he was actually a congenial and responsive person with a keen interest in people and their problems. He possessed an unusual capacity for gratitude--great appreciation even for small favors.
"In conversation Hagbard Brase was a good listener, and when in agreement with his counterpart he used the word, "surely." His rate of speaking was slow and deliberate; he was thoughtful, there was never anything casual or cavalier in his speech although he had a good sense of humor. As a participant in conversation he was well informed both in questions and comments. He was a kind associate, a true friend, and an unforgettable character who generated esteem and respect.
"Dedication to professional responsibilities and to his family occupied Dr. Brase fully but he managed to devote some time to personal interests and hobbies. He continued the physical exercise program associated with the name of Per Henrik Ling, famous Swedish gymnast, which he had learned in the land of his birth. A period was used each morning for this purpose. He often played solitaire at his home at his desk for relaxation. On Sunday afternoons and during evenings on other days, whenever his schedule made it possible, he listened to radio concerts by the New York Philharmonic or other musical groups and to phonographic recordings, often with the aid of the orchestral or other score. Troubled by insomnia, he passed the hours reading history books or studying the scores of sonatas or symphonies. Dr. Brase was an avid reader; often Toy, Minna's dog, sat in his lap, as they both enjoyed mutual quiet contentment.
"Gardening was a hobby which Hagbard Brase thoroughly enjoyed. At Skara laroverk extensive studies in botany were required, including passing an examination in the Latin and Swedish names of hundreds of flowers and plants in the tradition of Linné, famous Swedish botanist. Love of nature was a great personal resource for the Lindsborg professor and musician. The importance of gardening was expressed in his autobiographical article in the series published by Morgontidningen, Göteborg in 1937: 'My home and my garden are my hobbies. I do not always beat time with the baton; for a change I cut grass. When it becomes fatiguing to dig in music scores, I get pleasure from digging in the earth.' He faithfully kept a garden diary with records of planting, growth progress, blooms, etc.
"A detailed description of Brase's garden was printed in the Kansas City Star in 1937 after a visit by the writer. 'On the sloping ground ...glassbeads. June Currier Holmes observation in The Lindsborg News-Record: 'It comes to mind that those trees in the Brase garden might reflect the sensitive taste for the beauty in nature as well as in music of Dr. Brase who planted them.' [In the next paragraph is revealed that his only son Yngve felt that his relationship with his father came together as they gardened together.]
"Astronomy was another of Hagbard Brase interests and hobbies. He did much reading on the subject. The children were delighted when he described for them the beauty and mystery of the universe above them in the clear night sky.
"As years past, the great career of Hagbard Brase was recognized by the award of special honors. On May 31, 1932, Augustana College and Theological Seminary, Rock Island, Illinois, awarded him the degree of Doctor of Music, honoris causa, for his distinguished service to music as a teacher, conductor, performer and composer.
"The trip to Rock Island . . .[paragraph about the car accident is not included.]
"In October 1947 more than 200 persons assembled on the campus of Bethany College for a festive dinner occasion honoring Hagbard Brase. Gösta Oldenburg, Swedish Royal Consul General from Chicago, conferred upon Dr. Brase the title and insignia that created him a Knight of the Royal Order of Vasa on behalf of King Gustaf V of Sweden. The royal award, founded in the reign of Gustavus III in 1772, is conferred upon persons who have distinguished themselves in a variety of areas of service in the Swedish or Swedish-American context. This was an additional recognition of Hagbard's achievement in music. When Consul General Oldenburg presented Dr. Brase with this honor, the Bethany professor was greeted by a standing ovation.
"The Hagbard Brase Memorial Scholarship was established at Bethany College as a means of honoring Dr. Brase and assisting continuing generations of students.
"Dr. Brase maintained a number of professional memberships through his career. Included were memberships in the America Guild of Organists, the New Bach Society of Leipzig, Camma Mu chapter of the Sinfonia Fraternity of America and other organizations.
"Hagbard Brase asked to be relieved of his position as director of the Bethany College Oratorio Society, as already indicated, following the 1946 festival season. He was Director Emeritus 1947-53. Brase conducted the capella choir until the end of the academic year 1948. He continued to teach theory classes and organ full-time until shortly before his death in 1953. He was a part-time faculty member for a brief period.
"When years and decades accumulate it is a common experience of those who are in that period of life to reflect upon early years and the passing of time. Hagbard Brase did just that in correspondence with Samuel Landtmanson, a boyhood friend from Skara. In 1947 he wrote to Samuel: 'This so-called American work tempo has slowed down somewhat for me and I can reflect on my years in America.'
[Skipping several paragraphs to paragraph concerning Dr. Brase's death on Wednesday morning. March 18, 1953,]
"When faculty members and students assembled for the daily Chapel service that morning, they learned with deep sorrow about Dr. Brase's death. There was complete silence in the Chapel as Rev. Emmet Eklund, college professor, announced the passing of Bethany's great teacher and conductor. At the Brase home there was grief, dignity and poise, also as Mrs. Brase talked quietly with Dr. William Holwerda, family physician, and Emory Lindquist, president of the college. Soon members of the family and friends came to face together a world in which Hagbard Brase was not present to share life directly with them.
"A large congregation of friends and admirers of Hagbard Brase joined the family in impressive memorial services in the auditorium of Pressor Hall on Sunday afternoon, March 22, 1953. There were many remembrances of Hagbard Brase coming unostentatiously to the podium, picking up the baton with quiet confidence, nodding to the concertmaster, after which were heard the strains of the "Overture" to Handel's Messiah. There were memories of those critical few minutes at each performance as the singers keyed up for No. 4, the first chorus selection, with eyes fastened upon the director, waiting for the signal to arise in unison, playing of the first 10 measures of the introduction by the orchestra, and then the auditorium resounding with the words of Isaiah set to music, "And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed." The chorus and the audience that March day 1953 had been participants in a great tradition with a beloved music master who would not raise his baton again.
The memorial service was conducted by friends and associates. The Reverend Ervin C. Malm, pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church in which Dr. Brase had been a member since 1900, preached the sermon. Dr Emory Lindquist, president of Bethany College, spoke words of tribute; the Reverend Emmet Eklund, College pastor, and Dr. William Clark, a friend also participated in the service.
The oratorio society, with deep feeling, presented 4 selections. Some of the singers had been in the chorus continuously since that day in 1915 when Hagbard Brase directed for the first time. A kindly spirit hovered over the audience in Presser Hall as the chorus sang Dr. Brase's favorites--'Surely, He Hath Borne Our Griefs and Carried Our Sorrows.' from Messiah, and from the St. Matthew Passion, 'Our Sorrows Thou Art Bearing,' 'When Life Begins To Fail Me,' 'Here Yet Awhile.' Rolf Espeseth conducted the chorus and orchestra, Lloyd Spear was concertmaster and Lambert Dahlsten was at the organ.
A large funeral cortege joined the family for graveside services at Elmwood Cemetery, a short distance east of Lindsborg. Casket bearers were colleagues at Bethany College. The burial rites were conducted by Pastor Malm in the liturgy of the Augustana Lutheran Church, an English translation of the Church of Sweden's order of service. On Saturday evening the sound of the bells in the spire of the Bethany Church, which can be seen on the western horizon, reach this resting place and the chimes of the Messiah Lutheran Church bring the message of Christian hymnody, including familiar hymns from the old homeland across the Atlantic Ocean.
Hagbard Brase began his earthly pilgrimage at Råda in Västergötland and the end was at Lindsborg in the Smoky Valley of Central Kansas. It was a journey that was lived fully and victoriously.
Source: 1984, "Hagbard Brase: Beloved Music Master," page xii
Table of Contents
Preface and acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII
I. The Early Years in Sweden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
II. Music Studies in Stockholm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
III. Interlude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
VI. Emigration and Early Years in Lindsborg, 1900-1906 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
V. To Sweden and Lindsborg Again . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
VI. Hagbard Brase and the Lindsborg Messiah Tradition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
VII. Singing the Saint Matthew's Passion and Other Sacred Song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
VIII. Conducting, Teaching and Composing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
IX. Christian Thought, Faith and Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
X. Family and Friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
XI. The Years in Retrospect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Selected Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147
For 1984 "Hagbard Brase, Beloved Music Master" ~ Contents and Illustrations, go HERE.
* * *
~ Let Us Remember Them ~
* * *
Swedes: TheWayTheyWere
~ restoring lost local histories ~
reconnecting past to present
* * *
All color photography throughout Swedes: The Way They Were is by Fran Cochran unless otherwise indicated, or obviously concluded it is not.
Copyright © 2022 www.swedesthewaytheywere.org. All rights reserved.
~ Let Us Remember Them ~
* * *
Swedes: TheWayTheyWere
~ restoring lost local histories ~
reconnecting past to present
* * *
All color photography throughout Swedes: The Way They Were is by Fran Cochran unless otherwise indicated, or obviously concluded it is not.
Copyright © 2022 www.swedesthewaytheywere.org. All rights reserved.
