Sonja Louise Peterson Behrens, died peacefully at Hospice of Lancaster County , Lancaster, PA on Friday, February 24, 2012 following a lengthy illness.
Born in Medford, OR, on April 13, 1938 she was the daughter of the late Emil and Catherine Reese Peterson. Sonja was the devoted wife of Jack A. Behrens whom she married August 31, 1962. In addition to her husband she is survived by a sister, Randi Reese Peterson Woods wife of David of Sacramento, CA.
At the age of four she began accordion studies in Medford where she entertained World War II troops, and also started violin and piano studies at an early age.
She was a graduate of Willamette University, Salem OR where she held the prestigious Nancy Black Wallace Scholarship and earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1960. While a student at Willamette she held various offices in Pi Beta Phi and Mu Phi Epsilon.
Sonja was a scholarship student of the renowned piano pedagogue, Adele Marcus, at the Juilliard School where she received a Master of Science degree in piano performance in 1962. From 1967 to 1969 she pursued doctoral studies on Canada Council Grants at Boston University where she was the recipient of the 1967-1968 Aaron Richmond Piano Award for the “Outstanding” graduate student of Piano at Boston University’s School of Fine and Applied Arts.
She spent the majority of her career as an artist teacher at the University of Western Ontario Faculty of Music from 1976 to 2003, where she administered the Friday at Noon lecture-performance for many years. Following her retirement she taught piano as a sabbatical replacement at Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick from 2003 to 2004. Prior to teaching at the University of Western Ontario she taught at Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, at California State University, Bakersfield and as sabbatical replacements at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver and Western Washington University, Bellingham.
For several summers she taught and performed at the Courtenay (British Columbia) Youth Music Centre which was known as “Canada’s Summer Community of Musicians.” She performed Beethoven’s “Emperor Concerto” both at Courtenay and with the Kern County Philharmonic in Bakersfield, CA. She was a chamber music enthusiast who performed the Brahms Violin Sonatas with Roam Totenberg and The Beethoven Cello sonatas with Malcom Tait. With her husband she performed Olivier Messiaen’s rarely heard “La Vision de l’Amen”, an hour long two piano composition on which they practiced for two years. On several occasions she performed of the CBC the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
She enjoyed practicing on her walnut Steinway Concert Grand and often reminisced about visiting New York’s Shall with her longtime friend, John Cage, to show him the instrument she was about to acquire. Her final days were enlivened by visits from former students now residing in St. Thomas , Toronto, Vancouver and New York City. She also corresponded with many friends and former students whose lives she enhanced.
She was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church in Millersville.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Sonja’s memory may be made to the Traditional Music Fund at Grace United Methodist Church, 163 W. Frederick St., Millersville, Pa 17551, to the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, P.O. Box 852, Hershey, PA 17033-0852 or to the University of Western Ontario Don Wright Faculty of Music, London, ON N6A3K7 to underwrite lectures and recitals pertaining to piano and chamber music, especially that composed during Sonja’s lifetime.
Jennifer Snow says
Dear Jack and Family,
Both Jens and I are deeply saddened. Sonja was such a force and influence on many people. She was one of the people who directed me on my current career path and always was supportive throughout the years. Please know we are thinking of you right now during this very difficult time.
Jennifer and Jens
David Myska says
Dear Jack and Family,
We all share in your sorrow. Sonja is deeply missed.
David
Betty Anne Younker says
Dear Jack and family;
On behalf of the Don Wright Faculty of Music, please accept our condolences. Sonja’s work and dedication to students, faculty and staff here at Western has been deeply recognized over the years. Your loss is greatly felt; our thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
Betty Anne (Dean, Don Wright Faculty of Music, The University of Western) Ontario)
Ernesto Diaz Tamayo says
Dear Jack,
I am so sorry to hear this news. The few times I met Sonja, I always thought that I was dealing with an angel. She was soft, delicate and a fine musician. I send you my regards and condolences.
truly yours,
Ernesto Diaz Tamayo
Mario Elia says
Jack,
I would like to pass along my condolences. Mrs. Behrens played a monumental role in not only my refinement as a pianist but also as a person. Her kindness and dedication from the years I worked with her will certainly not be forgetten.
Mario Elia and family
Paul Kiteley says
Jack, my condolences to you on the death of your wife and partner,Sonja.I can only share with you a small portion of the sorrow and loss you must feel at this time.However, I do feel that sorrow and loss as Sonja was a cordial and caring lady whenever I dealt with her and you.
Although I am now retired from law let me know if I can help you in any way.
Paul Kiteley says
Jack, my condolences to you on the death of your wife and partner,Sonja.I can only share with you a small portion of the sorrow and loss you must feel at this time.However, I do feel that sorrow and loss as Sonja was a cordial and caring lady whenever I dealt with her and you.
Although I am now retired from law let me know if I can help you in any way.
Paul
Monika Janek says
Dearest Jack,
We are so sorry for your loss. We loved Sonja very much. We’re here for you if you ever need anything. Sonja was truly a terrific woman. We have so many fond memories of her and the times we spent with the two of you. Whenever we think of her, we smile. 🙂
Your friends,
Monika and Erin xoxo
Judy Colbert says
Jack, my sincere condolences. Sonja was very special.
Thinking of you.
Judy
Sally (Fright) Smith says
Jack:
My condolences to you on the passing of Sonja. I remember you both from the days at the Faculty of Music, UWO. Sonja was such a lovely lady and I know you will miss her greatly.
In sympathy,
Sally
Tom Schumacher says
Jack, I remember Sonja well from our days at Juilliard and the Adele Marcus studio.
Sonja was beautiful, personally and pianistically. I extend my deepest condolences.
Tom Schumacher
Peter Clements says
Jack
I have many happy memories on Sonja since you both first arrived in London. Sharing auditions and thoughts about students with her, social gatherings with both of you, and all the recitals where she either performed or coordinated the program. Her contribution to our musical life was a very special one!
Ms Woodson says
To The Family,
Please accept my condolence. I hope that you are able to draw comfort from the scriptures during this difficult time.
God’s word, the Bible, refers to death as an enemy that will soon be done away with. 1 Corinthians 15:26.
In addition, the Bible mentions a time when all of humankind will have the privilege of reuniting with our loved ones who have fallen asleep in death. Jesus Christ’s words at John 5:28, 29 assure us that such an exciting time will definitely take place.
It is encouraging to know that the Almighty God not only has the power, but also desires to fulfill such Bible promises. Job 14:14, 15.
Again, you have my deepest sympathy.
Carol (Denman) Holst says
To Sonja’s Family:
We knew Sonja growing up in Medford, Oregon. We remember Sonja as a beautiful, talented, and fun person in our junior high and high school years. She was a special person then and, from reading her obituary, she touched lives and gave so much all of her life. Our thoughts and condolences to Jack and her sister, Randi.
Carol and Monty Holst, Medford, OR
Nancy Arant Cheffings says
Please accept my condolences at this time of sorrow. Sonja was one of my pleasant memories of high school. She will be missed.
Madeline Lennon says
Dear Jack,
Tom and I send you our warmest condolences on your loss of Sonja. Our thoughts are with you.
Madeline & Tom Lennon
Bob Tisdel / Joan (Wick) Tisdel says
To the family :
She was special even in Medford High school, Medford, Oregon.
We have very fond memories of her and her
kindness. Always admired the way she held herself thru school years.
I hope that the pain of death will very quickly turn into the treasure of memoriesof her and her life.
Bob & Joan Tisdel
Lane M. Heller says
Dear Jack,
I was saddened to read about Sonja in the Free Press. She had a long and productive life. I knew little of the many honors she received in many times and places. Helen and I want to offer you our sincere condolences. If you get back to London, do give me a call so we can get together for a visit.
Sincerely,
Lane Heller
519 472 6886
Catherine Chilcoat RN says
It was a pleasure and an honor caring for and knowing Sonja. I will check in on you. Sonja told me to.
Elaine Lau & Joseph Ferretti says
Dear Jack,
We are so sorry to hear of Sonja’s passing and send our condolences. Please know that you are in our thoughts.
With deepest sympathy,
Elaine & Joe
George Thomas says
To Sonja’s family
I remember Sonja from our years at MHS. She was and always will be a classmate of the class of ’56. Our thoughts are with you.
Sincerely, George Thomas
Rebecca Hall and Aldo Farrugia says
Dearest Jack,
Our thoughts and love are with the both of you.
Janet Lopinski says
Dear Jack,
Please accept my deepest sympathies and condolences,
Warmly,
Janet
David Holler says
Dr. Behrens,
My deepest sympathies on the passing of Mrs. Behrens. I can’t begin to tell you how she influenced and changed my musical and personal life. She was one of the most influential people in my musical career. I am so grateful for all the time she dedicated to us as students at UWO – she always gave so much more than she had to to get us a good education. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today if I had not studied with her – may she rest in peace.
David Holler
Virginia Hunter Litschauer says
To the Family,
I was so saddened to hear of Sonja’s passing. I remember all the times Sonja came home with me after church and I would ask her to play the piano. I always hoped I would see her at one of our high school reunions. I was not surprised to see all her accomplishments in the obituary. She was definitely a very special person.
My condolences to Jack and Sonja’s sister, Randi.
Virginia Hunter Litschauer
Shirley Stafford Budd says
Have many fond memories of Sonja from Medford High. Shared many classes and orchestra activities (although she was always concert master and I was back in the pack!) I remember one competition – piano- when she mentally lost her place, repeated the previous section and the judge was so entranced by her playing he never noticed and,of course, gave her a top score. What a wonderful life she had with her music. She will be sorely missed.
Deborah Vreman says
Dear Dr. Behrens
My best regards to you and your family. It was most sad to hear of Mrs. Behren’s passing. I remember my years at UWO and studying with Sonja, with great fondness.
Sent with deepest sympathy.
Deborah Vreman
Shelly Koster says
Dear Jack,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss and send my heartfelt condolences to you.
Shelly
Peter Paul Koprowski says
Dear Jack,
I was saddened when I heard about Sonja’s passing. Our thoughts are with you as we share in your sorrow.
Peter Paul
Cor and Mary Rodert says
Dear Jack,
Such painful news to receive. You and Sonya have been in my thoughts for days. Many good memories of you both culminating in the performance of the Visions de l’Amen that I hope to listen to soon to empathize with your profound loss. But also to stimulate the return of Hope in due time. Please receive our condolences and prayers for comfort and strength for the days ahead.
Cor and Mary Rodert.
Andrea Sherlock Kalyn says
Dear Dr. Behrens,
I am so deeply sad to hear of Mrs Behrens’ passing, and so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Behrens was such a strong influence in my undergraduate life, and indeed really set the frame that made my eventual professional path even possible; I remain deeply grateful to her for everything she did for me and think of her often.
My thoughts are with you in this time,
Andrea
Colin Graham says
Our thoughts are with you Jack. Sorry to read today in the Globe about Sonja. Hope you are well — I retired three years ago, but remember with fondness our years together at the RCM.
Colin
David and Antje Laidler says
Dear Jack
You and Sonja were such good neighbours and friends for so long. We are so saddened by the news.
deepest sympathy
Antje and David Laidler
Gwen Setterfield says
I was deeply moved to read of Sonja’s passing. She was a beautiful, and generous person. Although we had not met for several years I often thought of her, especially when a piece of music playing would recall for me her gifts and her devotion to her students, and to her artistry.
My deepest sympathy to you Jack on the loss of your truly exceptional life partner.
Gwen Setterfield
David Parsons says
Dear Jack: I was very saddened to read of Sonja Behrens’ passing in the Globe & Mail. I have lovely memories of visits to London during the years I worked at the Canadian Music Centre and when you were so involved with that institution. I will always think fondly of Sonja’s warm and gracious hospitality. The two of you were powerful, yet gentle advocates for music and its contemporary expression whether at the University of Western Ontario, the CMC, in the City of London and far beyond. Memories of Sonja’s personal gifts will be treasured by all who encountered her, students, colleagues, friends and family. With my sincerest condolences to you at this difficult time.
Anthony and Betsy Little says
Dear Jack:
Tony and I were saddened to read Sonya’s obituary on Saturday in the Globe. She enjoyed a remarkable career and we remember with great pleasure the times we shared with both of you as Thorndale neighbours. We also have fond memories of the concerts we did attend to hear both you and Sonya at different time at Western, Museum London and once in your home.
We regret that we do not have your home address, so please do not hesitate to contact us if you are coming to London. We would love to see you.
Our thoughts and deepest symnpathy are with you. Fondly, Betsy and Tony Little
Linda Litwack says
Dear Jack,
Even though I don’t recall ever meeting Sonja, I felt as if I knew her from reading the notice in the Globe. Besides her exceptional talents, she must have been a wonderful companion. I am very sorry for your loss.
Linda Litwack
stuart smith says
Dear Jack
My sincere condolences. What a long time ago and how young we were in those Regina days. Two beautiful young wives two very serious young men. Do you remember my writing the best newspaper review Adele Marcus ever received as you and Terry dictated it and then used her pleasure at my astonishing critical skills to lever a harpsicord out of Howard Leyton Brown ? I never wrote again but I still treasure my amazing performance opening and closing a door in a session composed and directed by you. Very serious young men.All my best Stuart
Reuel Wilson says
Dear Jack,
We were so sorry to hear of Sonja’s passing –we only learned of it a few days ago.
She was a very special person and we much valued her friendship. Her spirit still lives on in our Wellfleet house, to which she contributed so much. We shall miss her. Please accept our sincerest condolences. With all our best wishes for this difficult time.
Yours,
Reuel and Natsuko
Rob and Karen Longenecker says
Dear Uncle Jack, please know that we are thinking of you during this difficult time. Much love,
Rob and Karen
Erasmia Voukelatos says
Dear Dr. Behrens,
It is with profound sorrow that I discover this sad news. Mrs. Behrens changed my life. She opened doors for me by opening my eyes, and to this day, her vision continues to influence my life. I was always awed and inspired by her artistic integrity, her wisdom, and her commitment to the art of music. I could never thank her enough for the time, energy and love she poured into me, and I will never forget it.
My deepest condolences to you. May she rest in peace.
With love and deep gratitude,
Erasmia
Jeffrey Cupchik says
Dear Dr. Behrens,
Offering you my sincere condolences at this time. Sonja was a marvelous instructor of life as embodied in music. She captured the essence of musical movement. I recall one lesson: I was reflecting upon a Rachmaninoff piece I was playing, and found myself at a loss for the precise words to describe the craftsmanship that went into the emotional construction of the work. Sonja said, “Jeff–if we could describe it in words, we wouldn’t need this (gesturing to the musical score).” It moved me to hear this. Know that her words were cherished and she was appreciated for her teaching craft.
J
Anthony Byrne says
I always remember Sonja with great love and kindness
Al my best wishes to you Jack
Tony