More than 1,200 singers participated in the annual CS Music Vocal Competition and more than 45 singers walked away with scholarship awards. CS Music set out to find out a bit more about this year’s winners, discover how they got here, and what their future pursuits are. Here’s what they had to say:
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CS Music: How did you hear about the competition and what did you take away from participating?
“I originally heard about the CS Music Competition in Classical Singer magazine . . . so, I was excited when I heard it was coming to Chicago since it is my hometown! The competition helped me in many ways. You are able to observe others sing in master classes and hear valuable feedback. . .” ~ Natalie Wiley, Musical Theatre High School Division Winner
“. . . I found out that one of my friends from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music participated in the competition last year. Her mom told us that the competition organized a ‘collection of America’s finest singers.’. . . This year . . . was a phenomenal experience for me, exploring various types of music programs and people involved in opera. I met several professional coaches, judges, and opera singers who provided valuable feedback and encouragement. Things like that just make you feel really grateful and inspired.” ~Leland Smith, Classical High School Division Winner
“. . . I just felt like this would be amazing to experience! I had never done a competition in a convention setting and I thought it would be a great experience and I could learn so much. I was RIGHT!” ~ Nyla Watson, Musical Theatre University/Pre-Professional Division Winner
CS Music: What are your career aspirations and what’s next for you?
“I will be starting my master’s degree this fall at the Eastman School of Music. When asked about career specifics, it is difficult to answer with much certainty. However, I can answer with the upmost sincerity and certainty is that I want to sing.” ~ Bergsvein Toverud, Classical University Advanced Winner
Natalie Wiley
Leland Smith
Josie Larsen“My goal is to be an internationally known professional soprano soloist. Next is to finish my undergraduate degree and then go to grad school to master in vocal performance.” ~Josie Larsen, Classical University Intermediate Winner
“. . . I would love to be the director of a music theater program/department, preferably at an HBCU (Historically Black College/University). My experiences and my story are something I want to pass on to the next generation of performers. . .” ~Nyla Watson
CS Music: Who is a singing role model of yours and why?
“I like Jussi Björling very much. His voice has a silver color to it; it is distinct and forces one to listen” ~Bersvein Toverud
“. . . Ben Platt. He is dedicated to his craft, humble and kind. He is also an amazing story teller and vocalist.” ~ Natalie Wiley
“Two singing role models of mine are Rachel Willis-Sørensen and Erin Morley. These women inspire me because of how well they are doing in their careers while still being able to give their children the care and support they need.” ~Josie Larsen
CS Music: Why do you love to sing?
“Singing is freedom. I am fully who I am when I’m singing. There is a grace on my talents and I truly feel like I’m doing exactly what God created me to do when I’m living fully in my art. The boundaries are gone and I just AM.” ~Nyla Watson
“. . . Singing is also a beautiful way of expressing individuality. Whenever I sing, I know that what I am doing will express my own voice and my own interpretation of a song.” ~Leland Smith
“I love singing because it is my way of serving others. I have the chance to help others feel different emotions because of my talent.” ~ Josie Larsen
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CS Music: What advice to you have for next year’s competition participants?
“Always pay attention and learn from the judges’ feedback. . . Also, as everyone says, be prepared. Lastly, get some good sleep, it’s going to be a big day!” ~Leland Smith
“My advice is to not come in thinking it’s a competition. You should enjoy the experience and come ready to learn and grow.” ~Natalie Wiley
“Enjoy yourself! Music is the most amazing part of this world, and we must all remember that.” ~Bergsvein Toverud
