Born: 1 December 1847, Norway
Died: 4 June 1907
Country most active: Norway
Also known as: Agathe Ursula Backer
The following is excerpted from “400 Outstanding Women of the World and the Costumology of Their Time” by Minna Moscherosch Schmidt, published in 1933.
Born Backer, when still a child she became the pupil of Halfdan Hjerulf, the famous composer. As she showed great musical talent, she was sent to Berlin for further education. Mrs. Backer Grondahl gave piano concerts in the chief towns of Europe, and everywhere her ingenious, soulful and powerful playing roused the deepest admiration. She was one of the best teachers of music in Norway, and above all, was a very productive composer. In spite of her delicate health and her manifold work, she has left seventy printed compositions. Among these we find melodious and lovely songs, prominent concert pieces, and a number of compositions built on folklore melodies. In all of them her rich and fine personality is reflected.