The Spring 2017 National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS)-Arkansas Chapter conference was held this past weekend at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. Professors Moon-Sook Park, Christopher MacRae, and S. Michael Shuman brought a large contingent of vocal area students to participate in the NATS Student Auditions.

Over two hundred singers from across the state competed. The audition is divded into categories based on age and musical genre. UAMusic students were represented in 12 of the 15 categories, the largest such representation in many years. 90% of the UA students advanced in their respective categories. Truly a strong showing at this important conference in the state.

Six UAMusic students placed in their catergories:

• Laura Frederickson: 2nd Place, Junior Women (student of Park)
• Marriah Geels: 3rd Place, Freshman Women (student of MacRae)
• Cheri Headrick: 3rd Place, Older Advanced Women (student of Park)
• Hannah Rodriguez: 1st Place (tie), Sophomore Women (student of Park)
• Chris Senty: 1st Place, Senior Men (student of Park)
• Ismaelena Serrano: 2nd Place, Older Advanced Women (student of Park)

This number of participants and winners is the largest group ever to represent the UA at a regional or national conference for singers. In addition to these stellar students, MacRae and Park served as judges and were selected to perform in a special showcase concert. S. Michael Shuman played also played a vital role for the entire group. He performed with each singer from the UA compiling an impressive accompanying list amounting to over 180 songs!

This impressive showing is a sign of the growing vocal area within the Department of Music. With a faculty of three vocal professors, one opera professor, and two choral directors, the vocal area at the University of Arkansas is a vital component of the Department. Vocal instruction at the UA is the strongest it has been in many years. Students enjoy a unique setting and dedicated instruction with opportunities to perform in a number of choral ensembles, opera theatre, and musical theatre. For more information on the vocal studies area, please contact Christopher MacRae.