Onward: An interview with Dianna Anderson
MINOT, N.D. – Dianna Anderson, originally from Ekalaka, Montana, earned a Bachelor of Music from the University of Idaho and advanced degrees from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Inspired by her mother’s love of music, Anderson has built a lifelong career as a performer and educator.
Since joining Minot State University in 2004, she has become a key part of its music community. As a founding member of the Luminus Piano Trio, she enjoys collaborating with colleagues and performing at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall.
University Communications tuned in with Anderson to learn more about her passion for music, her role at Minot State, and her experiences as an educator and artist.
What inspired you to pursue a music career?
DA: My mother was a music teacher and often played music, including the piano, as I was growing up. Once I was hooked on music, I never considered doing anything else.
You have an extensive career as both a soloist and collaborator. How do you approach collaboration differently compared to solo performances?
DA: Collaboration is more about listening carefully to my partners, responding, and trying new ideas. Solo performance preparation is more about digging into the musical score and searching for a unique interpretation.
How long have you been teaching at MSU? What brought you to Minot State University as an assistant professor?
DA: I have taught at Minot State since 2004, when my family moved here for my husband’s job. I began as an assistant professor after working as an adjunct for a number of years.
As a founding member of the Luminus piano trio, what has been the most rewarding aspect of performing chamber music, and how has your relationship with Jon Rumney and Erik Anderson evolved over the years?
DA: Luminus is one of the most rewarding parts of my musical life. We have explored an extensive amount of the piano trio repertoire and revisited many of the works that we love the most. Our relationship within the trio has deepened over the years, and because we know each other’s playing so well, we often don’t have to say much in rehearsal.
You’ve performed internationally and with various orchestras. Is there a particular performance or tour that is especially meaningful to you, and why?
DA: The most gratifying performances have been on stage at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall. I love our musical community and always feel that I play my best at home.
You teach various subjects at Minot State, from piano to music theory and aural skills. What is your favorite part of being an educator, and how do you inspire your students to grow as musicians?
DA: My favorite part of being a music educator is seeing those students who really struggled in the difficult early part of the music degree overcoming obstacles and becoming leaders in the musical community. I hope to inspire my students to grow as musicians through showing them the transformative power of the art form. Music really does make people’s lives better.
As someone who has presented at numerous conventions and serves/served as president of the NDMTA, what advice would you give aspiring music educators and performers?
DA: I believe strongly in the power of a good musician to affect the community in a positive way. Whatever community you find yourself in, make music and encourage those around you to participate.
How has living in Minot and being part of the MSU community influenced your music and career?
DA: I am very fortunate to have brilliant musicians to play with in Minot and at MSU who are also outstanding humans. Without others to collaborate with, the life of a pianist is very lonely!
What advice would you give to current MSU students or recent graduates looking to have a career similar to yours?
DA: Whatever discipline you are studying, do more than is asked of you in your classes or for your degree. Standing out in your field means having unique experiences, knowledge, and skills.
What do you like to do outside of work: family, hobbies, or other areas of interest?
DA: I love traveling, cooking, gardening, running, and being with my family. My husband and I have four grown sons and a new grandson.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 12/20/24
