Unveiling Legends: Honoring Musical Excellence
Prepare to be inspired by the stories of three trailblazing musicians whose achievements resonate across generations.
Pioneering Strings: The Legacy of Patricia Meisel
Patricia Meisel's journey in music began with her early involvement in orchestras during her time at Austin High School. Her pivotal experience performing at the Music Educator’s National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio, alongside a string quartet organized by Jean Miller, ignited her passion for teaching music. This transformative event set the stage for her illustrious career in music education.
After honing her skills at Austin Junior College, Patricia pursued advanced studies at Drake University, culminating in both a Bachelor of Music Education Degree and a Master of Music Education in 1960. Her academic pursuits extended to summer workshops at esteemed institutions such as the Universities of Colorado and Hawaii. Notably, she substituted in the violin section of the Honolulu Symphony under the direction of Andre Kostelanitz and secured a working scholarship at the Fred Waring Music Workshop in Pennsylvania.
Throughout her extensive career, Meisel imparted her expertise as a string teacher in various public school systems, including Des Moines, Iowa, Drake University, Albert Lea, and Austin Public Schools. Additionally, she maintained a thriving private practice in Owatonna for over five decades. Her performances in symphonies like Drake/DesMoines, Austin, Mankato, Rochester, Owatonna, and Canon Valley Regional Orchestra further cemented her reputation as a consummate musician.
Rhythmic Evolution: Barry Rush's Musical Odyssey
Barry Rush's musical odyssey commenced at the tender age of nine when he embarked on guitar lessons under the tutelage of Willard Lindstrom and Len Dingley. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for his subsequent participation in numerous ensembles at Austin High School, where he played the tuba under director C.V. Sperati and was involved in the orchestra led by Paul Heltne. His vocal talents were showcased in chorus and Austinaires under Wilbur Funk.
His early exposure to renowned artists such as Duane Eddy, Sonny James, and Conway Twitty enriched his artistic repertoire. Over the years, Rush collaborated with diverse bands, including Roy Little & Little Green Valley Gang, the Highlights, the Saints, and a Dixieland band featuring his father, Jim Rush. His versatility allowed him to contribute to big bands such as Henry Charles, Bobby Thomsen, Curt Wilkinson, Earl White, Big Beats, Bob White, and Ray Stolzenberg and the Northern Playboys.
Upon graduating from Mankato State College in 1966, Rush balanced a career in sales with Hormel while continuing to perform with various groups in Michigan and later Boston. His return to Austin in 2003 heralded a new chapter marked by collaborations with Rush Hour, Bill Apold, Chad Apold, and Sue Hayes. His enduring legacy is evident in his ability to seamlessly blend multiple genres and instruments throughout his illustrious career.
Innovative Resonance: Brian Christianson's Artistry
Brian Christianson's affinity for music took root at the age of eight when he picked up the fiddle, influenced by his grandfather Earl and mother Cindi. His youthful endeavors in bluegrass and country fiddle resonated throughout southeastern Minnesota, earning him recognition and acclaim. His involvement in orchestras at Ellis Middle School and Austin High School, along with performances in the Austin and River Falls, Wisconsin symphonies, underscored his burgeoning talent.
In 2000, Christianson earned a degree in String Instrument Repair from Minnesota State College in Red Wing, paving the way for a distinguished career as a luthier. His tenure at The Violin Shop in Nashville afforded him opportunities to service instruments for both students and professional players. In 2011, he established his own shop, the Fiddle House, which not only provided comprehensive string services but also fostered a vibrant community for musicians through regular gatherings.
Christianson's international acclaim stems from his performances with acclaimed artists such as Mike Snider, Nashville Bluegrass Band, and Roland White, an IBMA Hall of Fame musician. His appearances at the Grand Ole Opry with Mike Snider span nearly two decades, and he has performed in prestigious venues across Ireland, Prague, Slovakia, and Switzerland. His accolades include the Alabama State Champion Old Time Fiddler, Grand Master Old Time Fiddle Champion, and the International Bluegrass Music Assoc. Collaborative Recording of the year.