Gerard Tonning was a composer, pianist, and teacher who spent the majority of his life in the United States. During his years in Seattle, Tonning composed Leif Erikson, a Norwegian-language opera, that was eventually produced in Seattle, Tacoma, and in Brooklyn, NY.
Steven's presentation on Gerard Tonning is part of the International Edvard Grieg Society's 2025 conference "Crossing Grieg."
Read Steven's research paper here:
In October 2025, Tonning's opera Leif Erikson was heard on stage for the first time in over a century. Reconstructed and arranged for a chamber ensemble by Steven Luksan, this work was produced by the Northwest Edvard Grieg Society and Puget Sound Concert Opera for a run of three shows in the Seattle Area. Please enjoy this live concert recording of our show from October 12, 2025: