Paul J. Christiansen

Paul J. Christiansen  (b.1914 – d.1997)

  • Choir Director 1938-1986

  • Music Department Chair 1938-1987

Biography

Paul J. Christiansen grew up in Northfield, MN and graduated from St. Olaf College with a Bachelor of Music. His father, F. Melius Christiansen, was the founding director of the St. Olaf Choir. Originally, Christiansen hoped to become a concert pianist. He went to graduate school at Oberlin College in Ohio and received a Master of Music degree in theory composition from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY. At this time, feeling that he didn’t have all the necessary elements to be a concert pianist, Christiansen’s interest shifted to composition.

He came to Concordia at 22 years old to head the Music Department and conduct the Concordia Choir. Under his direction, the choir grew from regional fame to international acclaim with its “Concordia Sound.” Christiansen composed over 200 works for choir and his orchestral compositions have been performed across the country. Christiansen stepped down as choir director after 49 years and retired from the Music Department in 1987 after 50 years. In that time, he received several music and service awards, numerous honorary doctorates, and the admiration of all. Concordia dedicated its recital hall to Christiansen in 1995 with the unveiling of a bronze sculpture in his likeness.