Moscow, Idaho native and recent Colorado Mesa University graduate hit the road after graduation and began her career in singing and songwriting
Izzy Burns chose to build her music career while studying at CMU in the music department. Coordinating a tour and getting her name out into the world was propelled by Burns’ involvement at CMU. Her accomplishments on CMU’s stages prepared her for valuable moments in a national setting by competing at competitions.
For the second time this past year, Burns was selected to represent herself and CMU at the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), National Student Auditions held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With a third-place finish last year in Nashville, Tennessee, Burns cemented a runner-up spot in this year's competition where she sang both her original works and covers.
“Izzy’s strong combination of talent and motivation to continually improve have led to this extraordinary honor,” Head of the Department of Music at CMU, Darin Kamstra, PhD, said. “She exemplifies the Maverick spirit as an entrepreneur and creative singer-songwriter, and the Department of Music is very proud of her accomplishments.”
Following this tremendous accomplishment, Izzy Burns hit the road after graduation and has been living out the first steps of her dream. From performances in New York to Washington, to taking the stage in her hometown and the home of her college town at locations like Mesa Theater, Warehouse 2565, Palisade Brewing and more, Burns has toured across the United States doing what she loves most: playing, singing and writing music.
“Sometimes I get caught up in it though and I have to slow down and remind myself just how far I’ve come and that I’m lucky to be here,” Burns said.
Reflecting on Burns’ journey throughout her life, she has dealt with many challenges. To many of her fans' surprise, Izzy has had over 20 airway surgeries occurring near her harmonious vocal cords. Burns has never shied away from challenges and instead embraces them as a part of her journey.
Before releasing original country music on major streaming platforms like Apple Music and Spotify, Izzy underwent tracheotomy surgery which seemed to be a consistent occurrence in her life. However, Izzy has remained persistent in her music career and continues to live out and chase her dreams.
“My health-related challenges are not challenges at all,” said Burns. “In fact, my surgeries and all the people who said I couldn’t do ‘this’ or wouldn’t be able to do ‘that’ just drove me harder and faster and further towards my dreams.”
Izzy has grown her persona into something people admire and relate to. Her consistent drive and passion have contributed to her success in music and in life, and CMU is proud to have been a part of her journey.