The 2025 winner of the Karin Larson YourClassical Prize, Preprofessional Artist category, was Agnes Barthel of Duluth, Minnesota. Her entry featuring her organ performance of Cecilia McDowall’s Church Bells beyond the stars was chosen by YourClassical listeners as the submission that best celebrated women in classical music.
Barthel received $12,500, studio time in MPR’s renowned Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser Studio, and the opportunity to perform at an MPR board meeting in June of 2025. In 2026, Barthel visited YourClassical MPR to talk with host Tom Crann about her artistic trajectory, the music she loves, and also to share her advice with prospective applicants for the 2026 Karin Larson YourClassical Prize.
Watch the full interview above.
Love the music?
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.
