The lives of three Minnesota music makers have intersected throughout the years. But it wasn't until recently, when the eldest was packing up for a move to California, that their paths began to run more in parallel lines. It's all thanks to a treasured collection of classical albums on vinyl.


Treasured classical vinyl collection helps define three musical lives

Sound engineer Julie Gardeski talks about what it's taken to succeed in a complicated, ever-changing field.


What does it take to be a sound engineer?

In Emilie Robinson's art, old meets new, religion balances rebellion, and classical collides with the modern world - but one constant in her life is music, which connects all of the dots in her life.


Meet a tattoo artist who turns to classical music

When reading a good book, the world picks itself up and rearranges things into a different perspective. Music does that too. When combined, the two are amazing conduits to spaces that are timeless and wholly dreamy. You can find these spaces in these five compositions.


Music for reading: Five classical compositions to curl up with

Youa Vang learned to play flute for her school band, but found that the competitive environment turned her off. Now, she's rediscovering her instrument as an adult.


Girl in a band: Learning to love music, on my own terms

Some great music has been inspired by literature. Here are five of Youa Vang's favorite book-related pieces.


Books and music: Five examples of alchemy

When something clicks with Youa Vang's baby niece Grace, she responds immediately. What would she make, her aunt wondered, of Mozart?


Grace, meet Wolfgang: Introducing my niece to classical music

Writer Youa Vang shares a playlist of music that's helped spur her creativity at the keyboard.


Youa Vang

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