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In 1989, Karm Hagedorn, the founder of Soromundi Lesbian Chorus of Eugene, invited four women to her home to start a chorus. Word soon spread about a "woman's non-audition chorus," where musical experience, ability, or auditions were not required. The great "Lesbian Mecca" period of Oregon was just ending, and Soromundi emerged just in time to fight the violent homophobia of the 1990s. Using all of the radical feminist tools they had learned, they grappled with every decision using consensus and eschewing patriarchal leadership structures. Their music incited passion, their name broke down bias, and the joy they shared built a bulwark of friendship against homophobia and misogyny. But the struggles and turmoil constantly fractured whatever musical harmony was built.
Karm walked out, and the membership faced major turnover. Accompanist and accomplished musician Lisa Hellemn was left with the remains. She pushed the group to improve, and they found a way forward. Karm returned and a true musical dynasty was built. Soromundi became the only surviving lesbian organization from that historical period. Soromundi, the Sisters of the World, grew and changed with the times, moving from radical and rowdy startup to respectable, mainstream non-profit.
As they conclude their 36th season of making music, they are so much more than a chorus. They are a proud community and a cornerstone of the larger Eugene queer society.
