December 2009

Question:

Dear Abbot Pennings,

I read with interest a previously submitted question about the college’s “Alma Mater” song. If I read your answer correctly, Heather Schmidt (Music) wrote the lyrics – but who wrote the music?

Paul Conners

Answer:

Dear Paul,

The music for the “Alma Mater” was composed by George Albert Benner, D.M.A. Brenner served as a music instructor at St. Norbert College in 1997. After his time here, he went on to become a member of the faculty at the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts. Perhaps some of my readers recall studying music under his instruction.

Our music department continues to bring forth such amazing talent and to foster such great achievement in our students. From my home in the Mulva Library, I enjoy listening to the wonderful music that drifts across Third Street from our fine Abbot Pennings Hall of Fine Arts.

Thank you for your inquiry, Paul. Other alumni, too, who share my appreciation of our musical offerings, may be interested to know that a “Friends of Music” alumni group was established in 2006 to unite music alumni and encourage their continuing connections with the college.

Responses to “Ask the Abbot” questions are penned by St. Norbert College staff in the name of Abbot Bernard Pennings, O.Praem., who founded St. Norbert College in 1898.