NE North Dakota News

Kevin Vandal, a third-year Music Performance major at Minot State University, has emerged as a prominent figure in the music scene. With roots in Perth, North Dakota, Vandal recently won the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra (BMSO) Young Artist Competition.

Vandal chose Minot State for its "wonderful music program experience that was also affordable and close to home." The university's supportive faculty, particularly in the music department, plays a significant role in his academic journey.

Reflecting on his passion for music, Vandal shared, "My passion for music has been fueled by a variety of performances and experiences over the years. I have come to love making and encountering music, so I am eagerly pursuing a career in this field."

His victory at the BMSO competition resulted from meticulous preparation. "I made plans to compete and selected the music as early as the beginning of 2023," he said. The preliminary audition was virtual in October, followed by a live final round in November. He worked closely with Dianna Anderson, his instructor and collaborative pianist at Minot State.

Balancing academics with intense practice is challenging. Vandal explained, "As a music student, practicing music is intrinsic to academic responsibility." He uses effective time management strategies to balance both.

Looking ahead, Vandal will perform with the Minot Symphony Orchestra on March 16 during their “A Cry for Freedom” presentation at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall. He will also solo with the BMSO on April 20, performing George Gershwin's ‘Piano Concerto in F.’

Vandal attributes much of his musical growth to Anderson. "I met her at the International Music Camp in 2017," he said. This connection led him to regularly attend MSU's Dakota Chamber Music summer program and eventually enroll at MSU.

In future endeavors, Vandal aims to specialize as a collaborative pianist and pursue graduate studies while enhancing his audio-visual technological skills.

Tickets for Vandal’s performance with the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra are available for purchase online. More information can be found on their respective websites.

Minot State University remains committed to providing rigorous academic experiences within an active learning environment dedicated to public service and community engagement.