Where Are They Now? spotlights Minnesota Varsity Featured and Showcase Artists and Composers from 2011 to 2019.

Bea Grant,from Waconia, Minn. was a Minnesota Varsity 2019 Showcase Artist. She recently got in touch with Classical MPR to share her latest news.

Bea Grant, 2019 Showcase Artist, piano

Age: 17

Hometown: Waconia, Minn.

Attending: Waconia High School, Waconia, Minn.

It's been nearly seven months since I performed at Ted Mann Concert Hall as a 2019 Minnesota Varsity Showcase Artist, and while some of my story has changed, much remains the same.

I'm still seventeen years old and living in Waconia, but this will be my last year at home: I'm currently a senior and looking into college. I'm hoping to pursue a double degree with piano performance and international relations, something I'm sure will be incredibly intellectually and artistically fulfilling. My hope is to one day use music as a way to communicate universally and help bridge cultural gaps, all the while encouraging people to be global citizens.

In the time that's passed since Minnesota Varsity, I've had time to think about its deep impact on me and my career. I've gained recognition throughout the state and so many doors have been opened and opportunities created. I've made a name for myself!

Aside from any external changes I've noticed, the biggest influence of Minnesota Varsity that can be noticed is internal. My appreciation for music and performing has only grown stronger, and the people I met through Minnesota Varsity are the reason why.

I can't begin to thank everyone involved for the incredible opportunity Minnesota Varsity was - it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I can only hope that others get to experience the same magic that I did.