A system and method for controlling a rotating electromagnetic machine. A drive is connected to the machine's phase windings for energizing the windings. An estimator is connectable to the machine for receiving signals representing the phase winding voltage and rotor position. The estimator outputs parameter estimations for an electrical model of the machine based on the received voltage and rotor position. A torque model receives the parameter estimations from the estimator to estimate torque for associated rotor position-phase current combinations of the machine. A controller outputs a control signal to the drive in response to a torque demand and rotor position signals and the torque model. In certain embodiments, a solver uses the torque model to generate energization current profiles according to desired machine behavior, such as smooth torque and/or minimal sensitivity to errors in rotor position measurement.