Wyatt Crosby ‘25, music, is passionate about performing, teaching, and creating connections through music. At URI, he found a supportive community of accomplished musicians. He took advantage of opportunities like recording projects, late-night jam sessions, and performances at venues across the state, including the Newport Jazz Festival. His experiences have shaped his path toward a dynamic music and audio work career.

Why did you choose URI and the music program?
When I first toured URI, one of the first things that caught my attention was the nature and scenery. As someone who grew up in the woods and around nature, I find it calming and relaxing to have the beautiful trees and plants around. Another main factor that I really liked was the welcoming environment and supportive teachers. I get to do a lot of one-on-one work with my instructors. They make me feel like no matter how hard things get, they always have my back.

What is something special about the music program at URI?
As mentioned before, having the possibility of one-on-one studies is beneficial. I get to study with excellent and highly accomplished musicians. We also have many opportunities to participate in recording projects with the ensembles we’re enrolled in. We also have many off-campus performance opportunities, allowing me to perform at venues throughout the state and even at the world-renowned Newport Jazz Festival in 2023 and 2024. The music program is also constantly changing to better the program. We are even getting a new building, how exciting!

What are your post-graduation plans?
After I graduate, I plan to teach, perform, and do audio work. I also hope to start an apprenticeship in double bass luthier work.

What is your favorite memory at URI?
My favorite memory/memories at URI was participating in jam sessions late at night with my peers. We would play any music, and invite anyone who would like to try playing music for fun. It first started with five of us, and up to this day we are the closest of friends. We are highly grateful to the Music Department for letting us use their resources such as the concert hall to hold rehearsals and jam sessions like this. Another favorite memory was when the five of us recorded an album. This album was made possible from a research grant from URI, which allowed us to experience what it’s like to record a professional album with a producer.

What is something you would tell your freshman-year self?
I would tell myself to never give up, no matter how hard things get. It’s okay to be upset, sad, stressed sometimes, for that is just part of life. Majoring in music has a lot of ups and downs because it’s one of the most intensive and busiest majors out there and many don’t realize this. Don’t ever let the tough times bring you down and lose hope. You must always remember the reason why you chose to do this; to inspire and help others, to express who you are, and to bring people together.