Student voices capture judges’ attention

The voices of five Southeastern music students captured the attention of judges for the world’s largest professional association of teachers of singing. The National Association for the Teachers of Singing competition encompasses vocalists at both high school and college levels with divisions for appropriate age groups and years of study. NATS provides an opportunity for students who have taken voice lessons to showcase their musical talents. These vocal students placed in the top three of their categories for the spring 2014 NATS state-wide competition: Ben Vollentine, Alyssa Hernandez, Kristina Temple, Stephen Dale and Kimberly Dupre. “These awards are not given out just because someone has a nice voice,” said Steven Rushing, voice professor. “They are awarded to those who display a level of artistry that takes incredible discipline and hours of practice and study. Indeed they deserve it.” NATS is established on the national, regional, state and local chapter levels and is held every semester. The regional NATS competition is held each fall, while the states NATS competition is held each spring. This semester’s competition was held Saturday, March 8 at the University of Louisiana in Lafayette. “Southeastern students benefit from the exposure to professionals from across the state, region and nation,” said Rushing. “These awards are first and foremost a reflection of the students rank among their peers in the classical vocal arts.” Founded in 1944, NATS mission is to encourage the highest standards and education of vocal art. Competing vocalists have the opportunity to win certificates as well as monetary awards. The conference is designed as a learning experience with each performer receiving comments from judges after the first round of performances. “These comments allow us to realize how well we are doing and what technique we need to work on. It is a great way to get feedback from different professors other than the ones here at Southeastern,” said Hernandez, who won third place in Junior Women. “I am proud to represent Southeastern in any aspect. I wish more students would realize the amazing and talented musicians they attend school with.” Temple, a senior, placed in both categories she entered: first place for Senior Women, and second place for Male and Female, Music Theatre over 21 years of age, Category 19. She expressed her excitement in receiving both awards. “I am very excited and honored to have placed in both categories,” said Temple.