Ellen Bergman facts for kids
Ellen Bergman (born January 5, 1842 – died December 5, 1921) was a talented Swedish musician and a dedicated teacher. She also worked hard to support women's rights. She was so good at music that she became a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Music, which is a very important group for musicians in Sweden.
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A Life in Music and Teaching
Eleonora Magdalena Bergman was born in Strängnäs, Sweden. In 1864, when she was about 22 years old, Ellen began her studies at the Royal Swedish Academy of Music in Stockholm.
Her Musical Education
Ellen was a very dedicated student. She learned to play several instruments, including the cello and the organ. She also studied music theory and solo singing. She finished her studies in 1867. Ellen even had the chance to learn from a famous German singing teacher named Mathilde Marchesi.
Becoming a Music Teacher
After finishing her education, Ellen Bergman became a singing teacher. She taught at two important schools in Stockholm: the Royal Seminary and the Royal College of Music. She taught there for many years, from 1868 to 1899. Because of her excellent work as a music teacher, she was chosen to be a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Music in 1876. This was a big honor! Some of her well-known students included Sven Scholander, Selma Ek, and Dagmar Möller.
Fighting for Women's Rights
Ellen Bergman was not only a musician and teacher; she was also a strong supporter of women's rights. From the 1880s, she became a leading member of the Swedish Federation. This group worked to improve conditions for women.
Her Activism and Challenges
Ellen was an active writer and speaker. She believed strongly in equal rights for women. Her views sometimes led to disagreements with others. For example, she had a public conflict with the famous Swedish writer August Strindberg because of her strong opinions on gender equality.
Joining Important Groups
Ellen was an early member of Nya Idun, a Swedish association for women, joining in 1891. She was also a member of the Fredrika Bremer Association. Both of these groups worked to advance women's rights and opportunities in Sweden.
Later Years and Legacy
In the early 1900s, Ellen Bergman traveled to the United States. She taught singing at the Isis Conservatory of Music in California.
Awards and Passing
In 1899, Ellen Bergman was given a special award called the Illis Quorum. This award is given to people who have made important contributions to Swedish society. Ellen Bergman passed away in Stockholm in 1921. She is buried in a place called Norra begravningsplatsen. Her life showed how one person could make a difference through music, teaching, and fighting for what is right.