Both music and Carleton are Garbisch family traditions. Just ask flautist Mimi Garbisch Carlson ’66, violinist Marsha Garbisch Harbison ’67, and violinist and musical ambassador Marlou Garbisch Johnston ’64. All three sisters studied music at Carleton, played in the orchestra, and went on to send children to Carleton.
“Our parents, Dick Garbisch ’38 and Marjorie Crabb Garbisch ’39, were both musical,” says Mimi. “Both encouraged us to start with the piano then branch out to another instrument.”
“Playing music with others is like being on a sports team, where everybody is cheering for each other,” says Marlou. “It’s not only exciting and rewarding for yourself, but you are also contributing to the enjoyment of everybody who is listening. Music is a universal language.”
The three sisters continue to perform today and will reunite in May for a joint recital at a very special event: their father’s 100th birthday party. They’re pictured here at their induction into the Austin (Minn.) High School Music Hall of Fame in 2009.