Twelve voice students from Franklin College recently competed against students from Indiana University, Butler, Ball State, Notre Dame, Indiana State University and several other Indiana colleges and universities in the 2021 Indiana National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Competition. The annual contest is open to all students of NATS members. Franklin College Assistant Professor of Music and Voice Director Eric DeForest, DMA, is a member of the organization. Students competed in both musical theater and classical categories by submitting videos of their performances. Each student was assisted with their presentations by Franklin College Music Department Accompanist Chang Shen.

Of the 12 students competing, seven placed in their categories, with Franklin College producing the most winners of any school in the state in the musical theater category. Along with an award certificate, each student received a small cash prize.

The seven students who placed in their vocal categories included:

First place:

• Nate Irskens, a sophomore theatre major from Greenwood: Musical Theater Adult Tenor/Baritone/Bass category.

Second place:

• Colleen Kincaid, a junior creative writing major from Fishers: Third Year Musical Theater Treble category.
• Rachel Krodel, a senior music major from Greenwood: Musical Theater Treble category.
• Elizabeth Sekhon, a freshman English and music double major from Franklin: First Year Musical Theater Treble category.

Third place:

• Dylan Campbell, a senior mathematics and music double major from Franklin: Second/Third/Fourth Year Musical Theater Tenor/Baritone/Bass category.
• Jadyn List, a sophomore music major from Newburgh, placed third in the Second Year Musical Theater Treble category.
• Natalie Wilson, a senior art history major from Indianapolis, placed third in the Fourth Year Musical Theater Treble category.

“I am so very proud of each and every one of my students who entered this competition,” said DeForest. “They have worked so hard to hone their skills and having results like this are a testament to how that hard work can pay off!  It brings me so much joy to see them succeed!”

Those wishing to view the virtual recital on YouTube, may access it at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLo5bHgUVrlXR1gv0a4LvWEdxurD37qkrf

 For more information, contact the Franklin College Office of Communications at (317) 738-8185.  

POSTED Dec 14, 2021