Breaking Barriers as a Classical Musician: Brooke Pasmick’s Journey from Ely to the Spotlight

“I don’t know when I started loving the piano and music as a whole, but it has always been a sort of safe haven.”

For Brooke Pasmick, music has been a lifelong refuge, a space where passion, creativity, and community intertwine. Growing up in Ely, Minnesota, Brooke’s journey as a musician started with a childhood steeped in melodies. Nights filled with Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos and Saturday mornings dancing polka with their grandmother laid the foundation for a deep connection to sound. The moment their mother moved her childhood piano into their home was transformative. “I was reverently enraptured,” Brooke recalls, and so began a journey as a musician that has spanned years, styles, and locations.

Learning piano at the age of seven was just the beginning. While classical music wasn’t a prominent feature of the Iron Range, Brooke’s piano teacher, Judy McClure, nurtured their talent, inspiring them not only to play music but to create it. This foundation was strengthened through collaborations with childhood friend Ana Bercher, whose friendly rivalry helped Brooke push their limits.

Music became a thread weaving through all aspects of Brooke’s life. By fourth grade, they were exploring guitar, songwriting, and eventually percussion, which continues to be a significant part of their musical identity. In their teens, Brooke found inspiration in Chopin’s emotive compositions and the improvisational genius of jazz pianist Keith Jarrett. These influences sparked a love for improvisation and an enduring passion for musical exploration.

But growing up in Ely wasn’t without challenges. Like many queer kids in small towns, Brooke faced difficulties navigating a space where acceptance wasn’t always guaranteed. Thankfully, the arts became a sanctuary. As a self-described “band kid,” they found support in band director Sarah Mason, who offered them not only musical guidance but a space to belong. Dance also became part of Brooke’s creative journey, from Boreal Ballet with Ellen Schafroth to a renewed love for movement with Reflections Dance Company and Molly Olson.

Ely’s creative community profoundly shaped Brooke’s path, but eventually, the wider world beckoned. After graduating in 2020, Brooke moved to Durango, Colorado, enrolling at Fort Lewis College. Initially pursuing environmental studies, their passion for music proved unstoppable. Thanks to the encouragement of their professors, Dr. John O’Neal and Dr. Holly Quist, Brooke made the leap to major in piano performance—a decision that transformed their life.

College became a time of growth and discovery. Brooke’s curiosity led them to explore diverse musical genres, from Baroque to atonal, modern to jazz. Collaboration emerged as a cornerstone of their artistry, particularly through chamber music and multi-media projects. These collaborations inspired Brooke’s mission to make classical music more accessible to modern audiences. “Classical music is steeped in a long history of exclusivity,” they explain. “My greatest endeavor is to make it tangible to anyone.”

One of Brooke’s most ambitious projects incorporates visual art with musical performance, blending mediums to create immersive experiences. For their senior recital, they are working with five artists to present a multi-media showcase—a testament to their belief that the arts are inseparable. “The arts are so far intertwined that there’s no way to separate them, so why bother trying?”

Even as they look ahead to graduate school and a potential career teaching music at the university level, Brooke’s connection to Ely remains strong. They hope to bring their innovative performances back to the community that nurtured their beginnings. Brooke envisions a vibrant future for the arts in Ely, building on the recent momentum fueled by leaders like Ian Lah and the Northern Lakes Arts Association. “I hope the arts in Ely continue to grow,” Brooke shares. “I want to be part of the community that helped me become the musician I am today.”

Brooke’s advice for aspiring musicians, particularly those in rural areas, is clear: “Follow your passion, even when it feels out of reach. Seek mentors, embrace collaboration, and don’t be afraid to blend art forms.” Their journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and the importance of community in shaping creative lives.

From the quiet town of Ely to the dynamic world of multi-media collaboration, Brooke Pasmick’s story resonates as an anthem for artists who dare to dream big while staying rooted in their origins. Their work is a reminder that the arts are not just a form of expression—they are a bridge, a safe haven, and a path to connection for us all.

---

Join Brooke Pasmick for a Captivating Evening of Piano in Ely

Experience the magic of live piano music as Brooke Pasmick takes the stage on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 7 PM at the Vermilion Fine Arts Theater in Ely, MN. Born and raised in Ely, Brooke’s soulful and expressive style will guide you through an exquisite selection of classical and contemporary pieces, showcasing their deep connection to the craft and passion for making music accessible to all. Half of the proceeds from this concert will be given to Brooke to help them during their final semester at college.

Part of the Northern Lakes Concert Series, this special performance celebrates Brooke’s incredible musical journey, from their roots in Ely to their vibrant artistry today. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of the arts or new to Ely’s cultural scene, this is a night you won’t want to miss.

Tickets:

• General Admission: $25

• Senior: $22

• NLAA Member: $18

• Youth: $15

Reserve your seats today and be part of an unforgettable evening with one of Ely’s own shining talents.

Purchase Tickets Here!