Mr. Will/Will and The Wilderness

Known across the Lone Star State as the award-winning "Mr. Will," Will Dupuy shares an interactive musical spirit that's as big as Texas. His career grew from his time as a preschool music teacher and a father whose own children—now in junior high—inspired his early songs. Will is a familiar face at elementary assemblies and library summer reading programs, getting the younger crowd jumping to Americana tunes about dinosaurs, excavators, and Texas life. For "tweens" and high schoolers, he brings his Instrumental Petting Zoo, where his mastery of the upright bass, trombone, trumpet, drums, and guitar turns music theory into a hands-on experience. Will specializes in tailoring his sets to fit educational themes, weaving regional history and conservation into every performance. When he isn't in a school, he fronts Will and the Wilderness, delivering a signature blend of country and bluegrass for the whole community. An Austin fixture since 1999, Will has toured with greats like the South Austin Jug Band, Bruce Robison, and Bob Schneider. Whether he's leading a library singalong or thumping his upright bass at a festival, Will's infectious melodies bring folks together. He remains a premier musical ambassador, offering authentic Texas music for every generation. Photo by Nicola Gell.