HerstorySoromundi is a vibrant part
of the Eugene community, but the group's involvement and
influence also reach far beyond Eugene. The 60+ members of Soromundi
agree to a sometimes harrowing performance schedule because we are
dedicated to the ideal that our visibility, our energy, and our
harmonies can work against ignorance and fear and can help to support
and sustain a strong and visible gay and lesbian community in Oregon.
Soromundi is dedicated to celebrating diversity. Our song
selections span generations and cultures, coming from vastly different
political and religious perspectives. But when we sing, our songs
all make the same statement: We are here in all our diversity, and
we are strong because of it.
Soromundi
has come to be known for its political, emotional, and musical
power. The gay community has long been aware that our power lies
in our numbers.
In singing, Soromundi affirms
the strength and dignity of the lesbian community in and
around Eugene. We affirm, challenge, and strengthen ourselves as
well. We hope that in every audience we can empower people and inspire
them to action, even if that action is the simple but powerful choice
to be themselves
When Soromundi was founded
in Eugene by Karm Hagedorn in the fall of 1989, there were five
members. Since then, the choir has flourished.
Over the last five years especially, our numbers have steadily
climbed, reaching over 60 active members last season.
Soromundi is the name of a star and literally
means "Sisters of the World." Determined from
the beginning to have 'Lesbian' in the name, Karm Hagedorn, founder
of the chorus, discovered the word Soromundi in Cheris Kremerae's
Feminist Dictionary.
Just being a group in front of people and calling
ourselves lesbians was extremely political in 1989...for many of
us, it still is.
Highlights of Soromundi's journey include:
1989 Karm Hagedorn
convened Soromundi's first practice (in her living room) after seeing
a performance of the Portland Lesbian Choir. At first, we would
play a record and sing with it. More and more people came each week
until a larger rehearsal space was found at a local elementary school.
 1990
Karm started arranging 3-part songs the group wanted to sing
1990 Soromundi
booked our first gig at the Unitarian Church in Eugene. After three
songs, we brought the house down-in church!
1990 Lisa Hellemn
joined the chorus as accompanist after seeing Soromundi in a performance
at the Eugene Celebration
1993 Lisa Hellemn
stepped up as choir director
1999 Karm Hagedorn
rejoined the choir as co-director
1998 Tour to Bend,
Klamath Falls, Ashland, and Roseburg
1999 Recorded
a 10-year retrospective CD, "Sentimental Journey"
2001 Performed
by invitation at the GALA Leadership Conference Choral Spectacular
in Portland and stole the show!
2002
Soromundi's fourth Hult Center performance. Performed
Adiemus: Songs of Sanctuary with orchestral accompaniment.
 2003 Created "Building
Bridges" outreach project giving women in other Oregon communities
the opportunity to be a "Mundi" for a day.
 2004
Recorded our second CD, "Circle Me Sisters."
2006 Took a one-year
singing sabbatical and focused energies on Soromundi sustainability.
2007 We're back
for year 19 and preparing special treats for a fantastic year 20.
Stay tuned! |
