So Minnesota: MSP Airport musicians

Traveling through any airport can be very stressful.

One program at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) helps lower passengers’ blood pressure by bringing music to their ears.

The Arts at MSP Program was started by the nonprofit Airport Foundation MSP more than a dozen years ago.

The program holds 1,000 live performances annually, along with several art exhibitions around the airport.

Ben Owen, director of the MSP Arts and Culture Program, says the goal is to enhance the image of the airport and state.

“As you’re traveling through, it may be the only time you see Minnesota,” Owen said. “There’s an element of entertainment, but there’s also an element of education with it. We want our guests to feel welcome and engaged with the artists when they’re here performing, but we also want them to know a little bit about our culture, know a little bit about the diversity that live and work in the Twin Cities and Minnesota.”

Musician Pavel Jany is part of the program and performs at the airport.

“When you look at the list of musicians that perform here, I am very honored that I am part of the program,” Pavel said.