JACKSON, Tenn. — May 4, 2020 — Four Union voice students won first and second place awards from the Mid-South National Association of Teachers of Singing competition, which included schools from the Mid-South region encompassing Kentucky and Tennessee.
Kolby Atkins, sophomore music major, won first place in the Sophomore Classical Tenor/Baritone/Bass and first place in the Lower College Musical Theater Tenor/Baritone/Bass. Kaylen Williams, junior music education major, won first place in the Upper College Musical Theater Treble.
Sullivan Hogan, junior theater and digital media communications double major, won second place in the Lower College Musical Theater Treble. Jake Beals, junior theater major, won second place in the Upper College Musical Theater Tenor/Baritone/Bass.
鈥淚 am simply thrilled for these students, and to God be the glory,鈥� said Sabrina Warren, assistant professor of vocal studies. 鈥淚t is testament to their hard work and dedication to their craft.鈥�
The Mid-South NATS competition was originally scheduled at the end of March in Louisville, Kentucky, but was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In lieu of a live competition, students were encouraged to send audition videos. With the help of Mitzi Mathenia, music staff accompanist, they worked nonstop over two days to record and submit the students鈥� NATS audition videos, Warren said.
These students will now audition for the national preliminary round and a chance to sing at the national convention in June.
鈥淩ecognition like this can only help us reach future, higher goals,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 hope that this is only the beginning for Union's music department to gain a national reputation for the highest quality of music.鈥�
The Department of Music will host the Tennessee State NATS competition this fall, and Warren said they expect 150 to 175 students and teachers on Union鈥檚 campus for the event.
鈥淲e are delighted to be hosting, and I hope that Union鈥檚 music department becomes a regular fixture at these events,鈥� she said.