Celebrating Morten Lauridsen – Early Days at USC


Video #3: Early Days at USC

In the third video of our series, distinguished professor of Composition Morten Lauridsen reflects on his early days at the USC Thornton School of Music – first, as a student of such luminaries as Ingolf Dahl – and later, as a faculty member alongside renowned musicians such as violinist Jascha Heifetz and legendary cellist Gregor Piatigorsky. But his path as a composer wasn’t always so clear – and Lauridsen speaks frankly about his struggles and inspirations as a young musician-in-training.


In this revealing series, Lauridsen will discuss his student days at USC, the inspiration he draws from the quiet of his simple retreat on Washington’s Waldron Island, the influence of poetry in his music, and his relationship with USC Thornton, both as a faculty member and three-time alumnus. Lauridsen also offers an intimate glimpse into the creation of some of his most beloved pieces, including “O Magnum Mysterium” and “Sure on this Shining Night.”

To view the full archive of videos, click here.