Idaho Museum of Natural History to host American Indian Institute co-founder Robert Staffanson for free lecture Dec. 10

POCATELLO — Robert Staffanson, a Montana cowboy, symphony conductor and co-founder of the American Indian Institute, will give a free lecture at the Idaho Museum of Natural History at Idaho State University on Dec. 10 at noon.

The American Indian Institute was founded to preserve the tradition and culture of indigenous people around the world. Staffanson acted as liaison between two circles of people; the Native Americans and the people who wish to support them.

Staffanson recently published a memoir, “Witness to Spirit: My Life with Cowboys, Mozart & Indians.” He shares his unique journey of starting out as a “real” cowboy in Montana, and his move to start the Billings Symphony. He then moved to Massachusetts to serve as conductor of the Springfield Symphony. Returning home, Staffanson co-founded the American Indian Institute and become a renowned advocate for Native Americans and indigenous people around the world.

Staffanson will be at the museum’s Discovery Room. Bring a lunch and hear the story at this free event.

The IMNH is located on the ISU campus in Building 12. For more information, contact the IMNH at (208) 282-3168 or imnh.isu.edu.