The Rev. Robert Koopmann will give a recital at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, in Eppley Auditorium. Koopmann is a Catholic priest and monk in the Order of Saint Benedict. He is also a professor of music and president emeritus of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minn.

The Rev. Robert Koopmann will give a recital at Morningside College at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, in Eppley Auditorium, 3625 Garretson Ave.

Koopmann is a Catholic priest and monk in the Order of Saint Benedict.  He is also a professor of music and president emeritus of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minn.  A member of the faculty since 1975, he has taught piano, music literature and courses on creativity and the creative process. 

Koopmann is in residence at Morningside College for two weeks as part of the Dimmitt Fellows program. He is staying in the visiting faculty apartment in Dimmitt Hall from Wednesday, Oct. 19, until Wednesday, Nov. 2. While on campus, he is visiting classrooms and talking to students about music, the creative process, theological topics and the transformative experience of international travel.  

He has performed as a piano soloist and accompanist, as well as in chamber ensembles and with orchestras throughout the United States and abroad, including 20 states, Japan, China, Europe, South Africa, Chile, Kenya and Tanzania. He has released a number of recordings since 1994, including three recent recordings of classical piano and improvisations.

Koopmann has a doctorate from the University of Iowa, with additional degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Saint John’s University.  His studies have also included post-doctoral work with faculty from The Royal Academy in London and The Juilliard School in New York.

The performance is free and open to the public. The recital will include works by Brahms, Franck, Couperin, Debussy, Barber and original improvisations on sacred melodies.