Where Are They Now? spotlights Minnesota Varsity Featured and Showcase Artists from 2011, 2012 and 2013.
Pianist Aaron Fagerstrom from Thief River Falls, Minn., was a Minnesota Varsity 2012 and 2013 Featured Artist. He recently got in touch with Classical MPR's Christine Sweet to share what he's doing now.
Aaron Fagerstrom, 2012 & 2013 Featured Artist,
Piano
Age: 16
From: Thief River Falls, Minn.
Attends: Minnesota Virtual Academy and Lincoln High School
Since Minnesota Varsity, I have continued to challenge myself with classical piano. The recognition I received for being a Featured Artist has given me more performance opportunities.
This past summer, I was able to perform three movements of Lowell Liebermann's Op. 29 Gargoyles at the Young Artist World Piano Festival. This recording is from the 12 and over Honors Recital.
My career goals are not etched in stone yet. I am considering a double major in piano performance and audio/visual engineering. I am still trying to find a college that would cater to both of my areas of interest.
My greatest memory of the Minnesota Varsity experience was the recording session at MPR Studios. This was my first time in a real recording studio. Not only did I get to perform, but I also received a behind-the-scenes view of some of the inner workings of the studio. As a tech enthusiast, watching the production process was a highlight for me.
As a young classical musician from greater Minnesota, I truly appreciate the Minnesota Varsity competition. It is not every day that a young classical musician's work is played on the radio! Without programs like Minnesota Varsity, kids like me would never have this wonderful opportunity.
Minnesota Varsity 2014 is now open for submissions. Learn how to submit your music here.
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