Wm. Henry Hormel, younger brother to George A. Hormel, wrote how music impacted the family’s life during their upbringing. “We learned to read the notes and gradually cultivated a taste for good music. With words and with the music together expressing the nobler and finer sentiments of the heart, by means of good music, our thoughts were daily lifted above the sordidness and much of the evils about us in the world.”

Three upcoming musical events will further the mission of the Hormel Historic Home to provide musical opportunities to all ages and will offer joy to those who feel about music as the Hormel family did in the 1870s.

On Sunday, Jan. 28, musicians are encouraged to attend a workshop designed to teach people how to tell a story through music. Minneapolis instructor Sarah Miller will lead the class. Miller is an active composer, teacher and performer who has received numerous commissions. She has taught composition, theory, and piano at MacPhail Center for Music since 1997 and has a Ph.D. in music composition from Michigan State University.

The free workshop will be held in the Historic Home living room from 2-4 p.m. and all types of musicians are welcome. Participants will compose their musical story and then perform it for the group if they choose. MarySue Hormel Harris will be in attendance to offer her support to participants. Please call or go online to register for this free program.

Registration is now open for the 6th Harris Music Contest that will take place on Saturday, March 3. Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to participate in this fun contest meant to inspire and motivate young people to explore their passion for music. Welcome instruments include piano, strings, woodwinds, brass and mallet percussion. A prize pool of $3,200 will be awarded in four age categories. The contest will take place during the morning, and a free public concert will be held at the Historic Paramount Theater at 4 p.m. that afternoon.

The afternoon event will feature the top 16 contestants performing for your enjoyment. There will be no judging at this event. Awards will be presented and a reception will be held following the concert. Registration for the March 3 event is $20 and is due by Feb. 12. For complete details and to register go to www.hormelhistorichome.org/harris-music-contest.html or call the HHH at 507-433-4243.

The third upcoming event is the Pink Swing and will benefit Paint the Town Pink. Join us on Saturday, Feb. 3 to enjoy music by the Austin Big Band. Learn to swing dance and enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres while supporting the Hormel Institute. Cost is $15 per person. Cash bar will be available.

Wm. Henry also wrote that “when visitors came to call on us, there would be music and singing as well as happy conversation to brighten the occasion.” We hope you will allow the HHH music events to brighten your days.

Wedding and Event Showcase

Noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21

Plan your wedding or special event from start to finish. Visit with vendors such as DJ’s, photographers, caterers, and more. Prize drawings and complimentary champagne upon entry. $5 per person, free for HHH members.

Composition Class

2-4 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 28

Led by Sarah Miller with special guest MarySue Hormel Harris Space is limited so please register at www.hormelhistorichome.org/calendartickets.html. Free

Pink Swing

6:30-9 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3

$15 per person.