Where Are They Now? spotlights Minnesota Varsity Featured and Showcase Artists from 2011 to 2015.
Collin Jinks from Bayport, Minn., was a Minnesota Varsity 2015 Showcase Artist. He recently got in touch with Classical MPR's Christine Sweet to share his latest news.
Collin Jinks, piano, 2015 Showcase Artist
Age: 16
Hometown: Bayport, Minn.
Attends: Stillwater Area High School
I would first like to say that Minnesota Varsity has provided me with a unique and special opportunity that I will treasure for the rest of my life. I believe that it will also do the same for all aspiring young artists both past and future, who have been or will be part of this wonderful event. Minnesota Varsity for me was brilliant from the moment I submitted the first recording all the way to the final performance. It was truly a unique experience that few young artists will get to experience in their lives. To be able to record my music in a state of the art recording studio, be interviewed and then to have it culminate with the live radio broadcast performance was truly special for me. This past summer I attended the Colburn Piano Academy Music Festival in Los Angeles at the celebrated Colburn School. I was one of only thirty artists worldwide chosen to participate in the festival. While at the festival, I participated in the International Steinway Concerto competition, and was awarded laureate of third prize. This was also a unique and gratifying experience, as I was able to meet other pianists from all over the globe who share the same passion for the piano as I do. In my future, I look forward to studying piano performance in college and pursuing music fully in my life and attempt to achieve the highest level of music-making. I believe that even the most dedicated and brilliant musicians will only scratch the surface of what is music making at its true fiber and I look forward to the challenge of achieving the highest level of artistic expression. To me, music is something much more complex than a human is capable of replicating with an instrument but as an artist, I will strive to get as close as possible. I will embrace and live music until the very end and music is something that will never leave my being.
For information on this year's season of Minnesota Varsity, please visit the Minnesota Varsity homepage.
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.
