Lawrence University cellist Miles Link earned first-place honors at the recent (Jan. 26) Wisconsin Cello Society Solo Competition conducted at UW-Stevens Point.
A sophomore cello performance and economics major from Wilmette, Ill., Link competed in the competition’s Young Artist division (age 18-25). He received a $500 prize for his winning performance, which featured Bach’s “Prelude from the Suite in D major” and Tchhaikovsky’s “Variations on a Rococo Theme, op. 33.” Students in the competition perform 10-15 minutes of music of their own choosing.
Link’s winning performance was played on the college’s Cox cello, an instrument built by master luthier Douglas Cox of West Brattleboro, Vt. Allen Greenberg, a music lover from Chevy Chase, Md., commissioned the instrument, along with two violins and a viola, after visiting Lawrence in 2006 with his son, a prospective student and string musician.
Link was one of three Lawrence students selected as finalists for the competition, joining senior Claire Bachman, Minneapolis, Minn., and sophomore Alex Lessenger, Golden, Colo. All three study in the cello studio of Janet Anthony.
Founded in 2000, the Wisconsin Cello Society is a state-wide organization that promotes the art and appreciation of cello playing, furthers the musical development of its members and provides performance opportunities for professional, amateur and student cellists.
About Lawrence University
Founded in 1847, Lawrence University uniquely integrates a college of liberal arts and sciences with a nationally recognized conservatory of music, both devoted exclusively to undergraduate education. It was selected for inclusion in the Fiske Guide to Colleges 2014 and the book “Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About College.” Individualized learning, the development of multiple interests and community engagement are central to the Lawrence experience. Lawrence draws its 1,500 students from nearly every state and more than 50 countries.
