Who: Pianist and vocalist Brandon Scot McLaughlin
Bio: McLaughlin is a senior studying music and media arts. McLaughlin was born in New Hampshire. His dad was an officer in the Air Force, so his family has lived in a total of 8 different states. He works at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church as accompanist and cantor and serves as one of the song chairs in his fraternity, Kappa Alpha.
What: McLaughlin is in the chorus for the School of Music’s presentation of “”Così Fan Tutte.”” He’s also collaborating on a track with a friend and will probably be doing some recording later this semester.
Wildcat: What inspires you?
McLaughlin: The fact that there are so many skills and ideas out there that I haven’t yet learned inspires me.
W: Which musicians inspire you?
M: First and foremost, I’m in awe of the music of Catholic contemporary artists Tom Booth and Matt Maher. But recently, I’ve been getting into Rufus Wainwright, a little classic Elton John, Gavin DeGraw, as well as the latest album from John Mayer.
W: What is your favorite piece to play?
M: It all depends on the audience. If I’m with fellow musicians, I love to play Mozart’s “”Rondo alla Turca.”” If I’m at a party, girls usually request “”Take Me or Leave Me”” from “”Rent.”” But if I’m just practicing by myself, I like to play original compositions.
W: What are three words that describe you?
M: Genuine, outgoing, determined.
W: When did you start playing the piano?
M: Piano lessons began at age 10.
W: Where do you want to be in 10 years?
M: Ten years from now, I see myself with a family, working as music director of a parish in a city with white Christmases. Eventually, I hope to become involved with the Life Teen International Youth Organization, working behind the scenes on Lifeteen.com, or as an event coordinator.
W: Early bird or night owl?
M: Sometimes I like to pretend like I’m a night owl, but as soon as the clock strikes 2 a.m., I just crash. I enjoy waking up early enough to drink some coffee, catch a “”Home Improvement”” rerun and then go for a run.
W: What makes you unique as a musician?
M: I’m active in my fraternity, in my church and in the (school) of music and the (department) of media arts. I believe that my music is a reflection of this unique combination: my everyday life. Music is an expression of the soul, and my soul has been thoroughly enriched by the life that I lead and the people I’ve met along the way.
W: What do you think about Tucson?
M: Four years is enough.
W: What’s your favorite color?
M: Black and white.
W: What is your life motto?
M: Figure out where your passion lies. Then, find someone who will pay you for it.