Poster Austin Wahl
2011 Minnesota Varsity Showcase Artist Austin Wahl
courtesy Austin Wahl

Minnesota Varsity: Where Are They Now? - Austin Wahl

Minnesota Varsity 2019: Send in your submissions now

Austin Wahl, Guitar, 2011 Showcase Artist

Age: 25

Hometown: Minneapolis

Attending: Eastman School of Music, Rochester, New York

How has your life changed since you performed in Minnesota Varsity? I have completed bachelor's and master's degrees in classical guitar performance at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, with Dr. Nicholas Goluses, where I am currently in my second year of a doctoral program.

I have traveled to numerous guitar festivals and competitions, and really gotten a feel for the character of the community around the instrument. I thought it was much more formal and rarefied, when in fact most of even the highest caliber performers are highly approachable and personable. This was surprising and welcome, as I have personally met and studied with some of the most famous and well-regarded guitarists.

Career goals? I anticipate being a professor at a college or university, while recording and touring as much as possible. I heartily enjoy performing as well as teaching, in styles including classical, bluegrass, and rock, and hope to blend them in both performance and pedagogy.

How did Minnesota Varsity affect or influence you? It opened my eyes to the number and diversity of people my age who want the same kind of career as I do, and helped me to feel that there is a larger community of classical musicians than I expected.

What is your best memory of the Minnesota Varsity experience? It would be difficult to pick just one, but I really enjoyed recording in the MPR studios and getting to pick the best parts for the promotional video.

Love the music?

Donate by phone
1-800-562-8440

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.

More Ways to Give

Your Donation

$5/month
$10/month
$15/month
$20/month
$
<!--DO NOT REMOVE-CONTENTS PLACED HERE-->