Miss Minnesota's musical mission

St. Paul, Minn. — Since being crowned Miss Minnesota, Nicole Swanson has been traveling the state as an advocate for music education. A native of Lakeville, Swanson is an accomplished violist and teacher who has seen the positive impact of music on the lives of young students.

Swanson graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2005. After her reign as Miss Minnesota comes to an end, she will pursue a master of music degree and a career as a professional violist.

Swanson stopped by Minnesota Public Radio with her accompanist Leah Siltberg to play and talk with host Steve Staruch about her love of music.