Manuel Schwandt: A musical talent from the Gailtal returns

Manuel Schwandt: A musical talent from the Gailtal returns

Manuel Schwandt is not only a teacher, but also a musical all -rounder with roots in the Gailtal. At the age of five, he moved to the region with his family from Lower Austria, where he laid the foundation of his career. He spent his childhood in Nötsch with his mother and two brothers, while his sister has now moved to the Spanish north coast. After the elementary school and the Musik-secondschule Hermagor, he visited the Borg in Hermagor, where he chose the musical-creative focus and actively participated in choral singing.

his first musical steps took Schwandt at the age of twelve when he founded the band "Powerchord" together with friends. This time was formative for him and sparked his passion for music. "It was an exciting time that really sparked my passion for music," said his beginnings.

artistic diversity and teaching

In the course of his career, Manuel has participated in various musical groups, including the A-Capella group "4 Me", the party band "Caparo" and in the Carinthian state youth choir. These experiences made it possible for him to turn his hobby into a profession. "I was very lucky to be able to make my passion a job," he explains.

After studying at the Alpen-Adria University of Klagenfurt in the subjects of history and music education, Schwandt also worked as a vocalcoach. He began his teaching activity in the Lavanttal in 2023 and will work at the St. Paul Stiftsgymnasium from September 2024, where he wants to support his students with his musical expertise.

dancing and a fulfilling private life

But not only the music is busy. Dancing was also part of his life for a long time. In the dance school "Valeina Dance" he was able to win titles at Austrian and European Championships. Although he admits that he is no longer as flexible as in his youth, he uses his dance skills to develop choreographies for the choirs in which he is active.

Privat, Manuel is in a happy relationship and emphasizes how important his partner's support is: "There is nothing like the trusted togetherness." Despite his full schedule, he tries to return to the Gailtal regularly to spend time with his family and friends. "I visit my mother and brothers in Nötsch at least every two months," he says, underlining the value of these ties to his homeland.

Manuel Schwandt is an example of how you can naturally link passion and calling together. His story is inspiring and shows that, no matter where you are, you shouldn't lose the connections to your roots.