I am happy to be able to acknowledge and recognize the 41 young people who participated in the fifth annual Harris Music Contest last weekend.

The event is always special, but the presence of MarySue Hormel Harris made it even more meaningful this year. Mrs. Harris, the great-niece of George and Lillian Hormel, said that the event is a “dream come true.” She cares greatly about providing an opportunity for young people to grow and develop through their participation in music, and her generosity to the Hormel Historic Home allows us to host the event in her name.

Based on feedback from area music teachers we welcomed the registration of instrumentalists other than pianists this year. Selections from marimba, trombone, violin, flute, and even tuba filled the Historic Home living room with quite a variety of sounds. The top eight piano contestants performed in a second contest and recital at the Paramount in the afternoon, and our plan for a future event is to also showcase the winners among the non-piano participants.

Each participant received feedback from impartial judges meant to educate and inspire young musicians to further explore their musical passion and ability. Monetary awards totaling $2,500 were also distributed. Eleven area teachers encouraged their students to participate in the event including Emily Blain, Cheryl Collins, Holly Dalager, Christoph  Dundas, Joyce Edland, Charles Gray, Lynee Larson, Sonia Larson, Dr. Spencer Martin, and Sue Radloff.

Piano Awards

•Gabby Wang, Beginner Champion

•Claire Pepper, Beginner Runner-Up

•Breeley Galle and Caleb Augustine, Beginner Honorable Mention

•Andrew Keenan, Intermediate Champion and Overall Event Winner

•Blake Zimmerli, Intermediate Runner-Up

•Seanna Kubas and Olivia Augustine, Intermediate Honorable Mention

•John Lukes, Junior Champion

•Katie Lillemon, Junior Runner-Up

•Whitney Walkup and Winston Walkup, Junior Honorable Mention

•Ashley Conradt, Senior Champion and Overall Event Winner

•Isaac Kubas, Senior Runner-Up

•Tedd Lund and Sarah Bachmeier, Senior Honorable

Non-piano Awards

•John Lukes, Marimba, Junior Champion

•Micha Weber, Flute, Junior Runner-Up

•Chloe Schmitt (Flute) and Henry Jacobs (Violin), Honorable Mention

•Arn Huizinga, Senior Champion

•Charles Kanne, Senior Runner-Up

•Emma Anderson and Wayde Hall, Honorable Mention

Our gratitude to MarySue Hormel Harris is indescribable and our admiration for the 41 musicians who participated is great.

Thank you to area teachers for their support and to the Paramount for the use of the beautiful theater. This event is one more example of the commitment Austin has to furthering the arts for all ages.

Hearth & Home Series — Life and Music

of Ian Shapinsky

10 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 21

Enjoy a panorama of piano styles performed by accomplished pianist Ian Shapinsky. A professional performer since the age of nine, Ian’s flawless performance and interesting stories will entertain and inspire. Program will take place in the Historic Home Living Room. Snack included. Free