On October 21, sixteen Miami University vocal performance majors excelled at the National Association of Teachers of Singing auditions at Ohio University. To prepare for the event, the students polished 3-5 pieces each in different languages and styles.

“It’s a big challenge,” Dr. Alison Acord, one of their professors said. “We're so very proud of all of them!”

The winners are as follows:

Richard Miller Award for Overall Best Performance - Jeysla Rosario Santos

1st place, 4th/5th year Treble - Jeysla Rosario Santos

1st place, Hall Johnson Spirituals - Jeysla Rosario Santos

1st place, 4th/5th year TBB - Eric Riedel

1st place, 3rd year Treble - Kayla Hughes

1st place, 1st year TBB - Connor Grimm

2nd place, 4th/5th year TBB - Jacob Threadgill

2nd place, 3rd year Treble - Ava Nastasi

2nd place, 2nd year TBB - Logan Crooks

2nd place, 2nd year Treble - Maddie Erwin

3rd place, 2nd year Treble - Molly Stein

3rd place, 1st year TBB - Will Loudin

Honorable mention, 2nd year Treble - Mary Goodney

Other students who participated included Anna Hylton, Andrew Peterson, Lindsey Rohrig, Calynn Kimberlin who all received positive feedback on their score sheets, and Luke Ramsey who supported his fellow singers at the event.

“We also commend all of our other voice students because of the ongoing support they routinely show to one another and because of the high expectations they hold of one another,” Acord said. “We are grateful for such a terrific group of students and look forward to teaching them each day!”

Voice professors Ben Smolder, Jessica Rivera and Acord also thank Dr. Christina Haan and Carol Walker for coaching the students and playing for them throughout the 6-hour day.

“Miami is well-known among voice professionals in Ohio as having a very strong music and vocal program. We have historically been a strong presence at the Ohio NATS competition, but this was an exceptionally good year,” Acord said. “We are happy and proud to always represent Miami well!”