Inspiration through music

Miss Minnesota Kathryn Knuttila stopped at Wadena as part of her statewide travels and held a "Night of Inspiration" concert at the Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, Nov. 6. The Detroit Lakes pianist and composer introduced other musicians, honored nominees for "Crowning the Good In Your Neighborhood" and promoted the Children's Miracle Network and Gillette Children's Hospital.

Several Wadena area performers added variety to the concert, which represented a medley of both classical and popular music pieces.

The concert was bookended by Knuttila's original piano compositions, "The Masquerade" and "Quintessence," which she said would be her piece for the Miss America talent competition in January. She also performed another original composition, "Reflections," with violin accompaniment by Aja Majkrzak.

Miss Wadena 2010 Hanna Larson performed "All Of Me" on the piano, and Wadena First Princess Haley Anderson sang "How You Live" by Point of Grace. Anderson, a senior at Wadena-Deer Creek High School, talked about adjusting to the new building.

Christie Meier, associate in ministry at Immanuel Lutheran Church, sang "Wind Beneath My Wings."

Wadena artist Robert Segovia performed his original guitar and vocal song "When All Is Said and Done."

Jackie Tellers, a Wadena native, played Chopin's "Opus 9 No. 1" on the piano.

Ludwig Van Beethoven was well represented at the concert.

Twelve-year-old Joey Tranvik played the third movement of Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata."

Irma Allen's performance of the first movement of Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" drew a standing ovation, and she told the audience that she had performed the same song at the Memorial Auditorium for her senior piano recital more than 70 years ago.

Knutilla's platform is "Crowning the Good In Your Neighborhood," and several Wadena area residents were honored.

Allen herself was honored for being involved in music and music teaching for many years.

June Stafki was honored for her volunteer work in the community.

Ann Pate was recognized for her community involvement. Pate mentioned a benefit for Shelly Davis while on stage.

Wayne Wolden had also been nominated for the honor, but he was on vacation and unable to attend the event. Bonnie Kingsley spoke on his behalf.

During the concert, organizers screened a Children's Miracle Network video. A freewill offering was held, and CDs of Knuttila's charity album "Blessed Beyond Measure" were sold after the concert. The event raised more than $800 for the charity.