The society was founded in connection with Kirsten Flagstad’s 80th anniversary in 1975. The people behind it were the well-known broadcaster Torstein Gunnarson and chief librarian at the Norwegian Music Library, Øystein Gaukstad. Aided by leading figures in the Norwegian cultural scene, they managed to raise funds for the establishment of a Flagstad society.
The aim of the society has always been to spread awareness of Kirsten Flagstad’ artistry and keep her name alive.
At an early stage there was talk of raising a statue, and with the help of contributions from the public, the plan was realised in1982. The sculptor Joseph Grimeland was commissioned to that end, and the statue was unveiled outside the Norwegian Academy of Music in Oslo by the distinguished Norwegian conductor Øivin Fjeldstad.
Before his death in 1994, Torstein Gunnarson had worked for an official commemoration of the 1995 centenary of Kirsten Flagstad’s birth. As a result of this the Bank of Norway brought out a 100-kroner banknote in 1997 with a depiction of Kirsten Flagstad, and the postal authorities issued stamps showing her picture.
The Flagstad Society was responsible for co-ordinating the celebrations and gave financial support to a number of events at various venues around the country, culminating in a major concert in the Norwegian Opera with internationally acclaimed artists and a concert in her home town by the world-famous soprano Jessye Norman on 12th June, 1995, a hundred years to the day after her birth.
The Society organises meetings for its members with talks and lectures by people who knew Kirsten Flagstad or co-operated with her. In addition, a number of distinguished Norwegian artists have been invited to talk about their own singing careers.
The Society’s annual general meeting is held in May-June.
The Flagstad Society is responsible for awarding the Flagstad Prize, a cheque for NOK 10,000.-, together with a statuette of Kirsten Flagstad made by Joseph Grimeland. Since 1995 the prize has been awarded to about ten artists.
In agreement with Kirsten Flagstad’s heirs in the USA, the Society is entrusted with ensuring that her name is used appropriately.
The Friends of Kirsten Flagstad Museum was founded in 1993 with the aim of spreading interest in the museum and in Kirsten Flagstad’s life and career.
The members co-operate closely with the museum take an active part in events and raise funds for the development of the museum.
Membership grants reduced entry fees for events at the museum and invitations to excursions and events run by the group.
Annual subscription: NOK 150.-
Life-long membership: NOK 1500.-
You are heartily welcome to join the Friends of Kirsten Flagstad!
Bank account no. 1822.05.90832