BYU–Hawaii Voice Students Excel at NATS International Region Auditions and NSAL Competition
Several talented voice students from BYU–Hawaii recently earned top honors at the prestigious National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) International Region Auditions. Their success highlights the strength of the university’s vocal program and the dedication of its students and faculty.
About NATS and the International Region Auditions
The National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) is the world’s largest professional association of voice teachers, dedicated to promoting excellence in vocal education and performance. NATS holds annual competitions at state, regional, and national levels, providing young singers with opportunities to refine their skills, receive professional feedback, and gain recognition in the vocal arts.
The NATS International Region encompasses singers from outside the United States, offering a competitive platform for students from diverse cultural and musical backgrounds. Participants compete in various categories, including classical, musical theater, and commercial music, based on their age and experience level.
BYU–Hawaii’s Outstanding Results
This year, several students from the Hawaii District, representing BYU–Hawaii, placed in the final round of the NATS International Region Auditions:
- Rebekah Sneddon – 1st Place, Lower College Musical Theater Treble (Teacher: Erica Glenn)
- Rebekah Sneddon – 2nd Place, Second Year College Classical Treble (Teacher: Erica Glenn)
- Mila Cutler – 1st Place, Upper College Commercial Music Treble (Teacher: Erica Glenn)
- Mila Cutler – 1st Place, Upper College Musical Theater Treble (Teacher: Erica Glenn)
- Brianna Frehner – 2nd Place, Upper College Musical Theater Treble (Teacher: Erica Glenn)
- Micah Curtis – 1st Place, Upper College Commercial Music TBB (Teacher: Erica Glenn)
- Micah Curtis – 1st Place, Upper College Musical Theater TBB (Teacher: Erica Glenn)
- Steven Tee – 1st Place, Adult Non-traditional Student Musical Theater TBB (Teacher: Daniel Tu’utau)
These achievements reflect not only the hard work and artistry of the students but also the high caliber of vocal instruction at BYU–Hawaii.
Success at the National Society of Arts and Letters (NSAL) Competition
In addition to their victories at NATS, two of BYU–Hawaii’s voice students also excelled in the National Society of Arts and Letters (NSAL) Winston Classical Voice Scholarship Competition for the state of Hawaii.
- Rebekah Sneddon won 1st place, earning a $1,500 scholarship.
- Micah Curtis placed 2nd, receiving a $750 scholarship.
Both students will represent Hawai‘i at the NSAL national competition, further showcasing their talent on a broader stage.
A Testament to Excellence
These remarkable accomplishments reinforce BYU–Hawaii’s growing reputation in the field of vocal performance. The university’s voice faculty, Dr. Daniel Tu’utau, Dr. Erica Glenn, and Catherine Morris, continue to provide rigorous training and mentorship, preparing students for success in professional and competitive settings.
Congratulations to all the winners for their dedication and hard work. Their achievements are an inspiration to the entire BYU–Hawaii music community!