Ronnie Laehn, a sophomore chemistry major from South Elgin, Illinois earned the only guitar scholarship at ACU.

Ronnie Laehn, sophomore plays his guitar. (Photo by Nicholas Cromwell)

Laehn said has been playing guitar for 10.5 and has loved every moment of his musical endeavors. He began taking private lessons for guitar when he was eight years old and continued in lessons until his senior year of high school.

He is able to play a six, seven, eight, and twelve string guitar with great precision and little difficulty.

Laehn plays with various groups on and off campus, including jazz ensemble and jazz combo. He has been a featured guitarist in Sing Song and various musicals through the theatre department. He can also be found up on the Cullen stage during Immersed worship sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“I perform primarily with music ensembles rather than chapel organizations,” Laehn said.

The scholarship is provided through the music department and was obtained through a video audition when he applied to attend school. Laehn said he hopes to continue keeping music and guitar in his life, and to not let his career consume him and deprive him of enjoying his hobby.

“I hope to be able to perform in conjunction with my job after I receive my degree,” Laehn said. “It’s my passion. However, a career should not always follow a passion or talent. Passion doesn’t guarantee success.”

Ronnie Laehn, sophomore plays his guitar. (Photo by Nicholas Cromwell)

Laehn said his favorite aspect of playing guitar is the freedom it gives him to experiment with different genres of music. He plays classical, blues, jazz, rock, and heavy metal music with his instrument.

“It is enjoyable to attend a university that values my music capabilities while still pursuing a career in the chemical industry,” Laehn says. “There are many opportunities to perform.”