Celebrating Morten Lauridsen – Over 50 Years at USC


In the final chapter of our semester-long portrait of Morten Lauridsen, the distinguished composer reflects on his time at USC Thornton and what the school has meant to him. Arriving in Los Angeles as a “clean slate,” Lauridsen now sees himself as a product of the teaching and mentoring he found at USC. Lauridsen ends our series with a reflection of the profound impact that 52 years as a Trojan have had upon his life.


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.