Submitted Photo Rosanne Olson, Minot State graduate, is the featured composer in the MInot State University Concert Choir’s presentation of “Crossings: Toward the Light.”

Minot State graduate, visual artist and photographer Rosanne Olson will be featuring her original pieces in the Minot State University Concert Choir’s performance of “Crossings: Toward the Light” this week. The concert explores the rich heritage of Norwegian-American music.

Olson’s compositions, arranged for the choir by Dr. Emerson Eads, MSU’s director of Choral Activities, offer original music and visual art.

The concert will take place Wednesday at 7 p.m. in MSU’s Ann Nicole Nelson Hall. The event is free to attend. Donations will be accepted to support the choir’s travel expenses to Norway this spring. Olson will discuss her creative process in composing the music and crafting the artwork at a reception in the lobby.

Olson first began her artistic journey when she applied to the University of Oregon. She pursued a degree in journalism and she fell in love with photography.

“In my mind and in my life, all of the arts I do – whether it is painting, photography or songwriting – are part of an expression that is simply who I am,” she said.

After being inspired by an actor who played the harmonica at a theater production in Seattle, Washington, Olson went on to learn guitar.

“My harmonica teacher would ask me to accompany him on his self-written songs. I said to myself, ‘I want to do that. Which led to the next step: learning guitar, learning to sing and learning songwriting. From that time on, my life has been filled with creating music,” she said.

“Working with Rosanne Olson has been an incredibly meaningful experience,” Eads said. “She has an extraordinary depth of feeling that permeates every aspect of her work, and it is evident in her music. Her texts are not merely written — they are painted, and the simplicity of her music belies its profound emotional impact. I am eager for the Minot community to experience her artistry, which many know through her visual art and gallery exhibitions, but perhaps not through her poetic and musical voice.”

“My three songs for this MSU performance are about compassion for immigrants and for each other. And about how lucky we are to be here, able to appreciate life while so many others are struggling. I am thrilled to work with Emerson and have him put his magic touch on my songs. I can’t wait until I can see/hear them in person. Both my husband and I will be attending,” Olson said.