We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all of the talented music majors who applied for this year’s Wilshire Quinn Musical Arts Scholarship. Each application showcased unique narratives and exceptional musical aptitude, making the decision incredibly challenging.

After careful review and consideration, we are excited to announce Owne Xayboury as the recipient of the 2024 Wilshire Quinn Musical Arts Scholarship. Owne is an accomplished violist entering his third year at the Manhattan School of Music as a Classical Viola major.

Owne grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin as one of ten siblings. His passion for the viola was sparked at the age of 12, when he attended a concert that exposed him to the thick, dark tone of the viola. From that moment, he knew he wanted to pursue the viola, later finding in it an extension of his expressions, identity, and voice.

Owne’s passion for the viola is fueled by the immense sacrifices his parents made for their family and his desire to inspire future generations of Hmong people to pursue their dreams, regardless of cultural expectations. Overcoming the challenge of defying cultural norms that often undervalue artistic careers, Owne has demonstrated that true success is found in pursuing what brings you happiness and fulfillment.

Throughout his musical journey, Owne has made notable achievements as a young violist. In high school, he was the principal violist of the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra and won their concerto competition. Owne’s talent and dedication to the viola also earned him first prize in the 2023 New York Young Virtuoso Competition, where he debuted at Carnegie Hall.  He has also collaborated with renowned musicians, including violinist and former concertmaster of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Frank Almond, and American rapper and three-time Grammy Award winner, Common.

Owne’s musical inspirations include Rachmaninoff, Strauss, Schumann, and contemporary artists, Daniel Caesar and SZA. His greatest musical inspiration is his current private viola teacher, Molly Carr.

We are truly in awe of Owne’s talent and the dedication he brings to his craft. On behalf of everyone at Wilshire Quinn, we congratulate Owne Xayboury and thank all applicants for their exceptional submissions.

Sincerely,

Christopher M. Garcia
CEO