Justin Knoepfel

Dr. Justin Knoepfel joined Gustavus in 2009, and currently teaches viola, violin, and is the chair of the Department of Music. He graduated from Luther College (B.A.), received his Master of Music degree in viola from the University of Minnesota, and Doctorate of Musical Arts degree in viola performance and a secondary emphasis in music theory at the University of Minnesota's School of Music.

Dr. Knoepfel has performed with the Minnesota Orchestra, Minnesota Opera, South Dakota Symphony, Mankato Symphony, LaCrosse Symphony, and others. He has performed extensively throughout the United States and in Europe at such venues as Konzerthaus Wien, Orchestra Hall, Ordway Center, Le Jeune Lune Theatre, Bethel University, University of Minnesota, St. Olaf College, and Luther College. He has also performed extensively with members of the Minnesota Orchestra, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and others. His primary teachers have been Mr. Korey Konkol, Dr. Spencer Martin, and Mr. Tom Turner. Additionally, Dr. Knoepfel has participated as a performer and faculty member in various programs including Dorian Music Festival, MNSOTA Summer String Camp, Lutheran Summer Music Academy and Festival, Salem Music Academy, Bravo!, and the International Viola Congress. 

Recent performances have included solo, orchestral, and chamber music engagements -- most notably with the Bridge Chamber Music Festival, South Dakota Symphony, Ballet West, Minnesota Opera, Joffrey Ballet, Opera at Mill City, Gustavus Wind Orchestra, Oratorio Society of Minnesota, World Piano e-Competition, and more. He has also had the pleasure of playing with Idina Menzel, Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, and Their Majesties King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden. His performing career is varied and exciting.

Dr. Knoepfel is married to Elisa and they have five children: Sieara, Micah, Levi, Lauryn, and Emilia. Regan the dog (a bernedoodle) and a cat named Avery (a ragdoll) are allowed to live in the house. Family is his life!

Courses Taught