On Nov. 4 and 5, five NDSU Challey School of Music students placed at the Minnesota National Association of Teachers of Singing student auditions. The event was hosted by St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN and featured 217 student singers. Students were judged on their tone, breathing and alignment, diction, musicianship and artistry.

Students who placed include Tessa Hartl, a sophomore studying music, placing third in the sophomore women competition; Karly Ritland, placing second in the junior women category; Cole Sherwood, placing second in the senior men division; Tyrie Williams, placing third in the senior men division; and senior Anna Tescher, placing first in the graduate division of the event.

Senior Tyler Berg, junior Jacee Engels and sophomore Danica McDonald also participated in the event and reached the semifinals but did not go on to place in their respective events.

While the vocalists were the main attraction for the competition, several NDSU student piano accompanists Carson Covey (graduate), Bernadette Fromherz (staff), Benton Schmidt (senior), Hannah Swanson (junior) and Victoria Wright (graduate) also participated in the event.

The National Association of Teachers of Singing works to unite professional teachers of singing to enhance the art and science behind the voice. As part of their mission, the NATS works with students to hone their potential and prepare them to become excellent teachers in their field.

This competition was only part of the Challey School of Music’s repertoire.

NDSU will be hosting Handel’s “Messiah” Dec. 2 and 3, and the Madrigal Dinners Dec. 8-10, displaying the breadth and talent of its students.

As for the instrumental side of the school, Jazz Ensembles will be hosting a concert on Nov. 29 and the NDSU Wind Symphony will be performing on Dec. 4.

More details on the Challey School of Music and upcoming performances can be found at their website, ndsu.edu/performingarts/music.