Published Thursday, October 17th, 2024
Part of the 2024-25 Student Spotlight series, featuring Ethan Wibben of Wayne, Neb.
Ethan Wibben didn’t have to look far when it came time to choose a college. The junior from Wayne, who is majoring in Music Performance, is this week’s subject of the Student Spotlight series.
Wibben’s sister graduated from Wayne State, and he said she loved her experience. He looked at another option or two, but ultimately decided on Wayne State because of the Department of Music’s outstanding reputation.
“My goal is to perform in operas someday,” said Wibben. “Through my instructors, I learned about the A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. That’s where I’m headed after I graduate from Wayne State.”
Wibben credits Wayne State music instructors Dr. Matthew Armstrong, director of choral activities, and Dr. Sarah Farr, voice instructor, as being two of his biggest musical influences.
“I love attending all the faculty recitals, said Wibben. “You get to hear the faculty perform and see how they apply their classroom instruction to their own performances. The faculty recitals are a great learning experience for students.”
Wibben has been playing the trumpet since the fifth grade, and he can also play the piano, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trombone, and tuba. He’s a member of the Wildcat Marching Band, Concert Choir, and Chamber Choir.
Wibben will graduate in May 2027, and he intends to pursue a performing career in opera.