The competitors all poured their hearts and souls into preparing for the competition, an event which had special meanings for everyone. For Bradley, it was confirmation of pursuing the right thing. For Wallace, it was reassurance. “As a music major, you are always doubting your abilities and questioning if you are really good enough,” he said. “This competition is a big encouragement to me and helps to reassure me that I am doing well with my instrument.”

Not only did the competition offer the competitors some level of encouragement, but it also provided an opportunity to learn. Gehman, the youngest of the competitors, had this to say about her experience: “I learned that my actual ranking doesn’t matter at all as long as I’m committed to my art and I’m happy with the art I’ve put out there.” She also noted that the comments from the judges would be super helpful in moving forward.

Wallace shared similar sentiments, saying, “I was able to learn things from the judges that I need to improve on. They also were able to tell me what I am good at. I learned that God is in control, and that I do not need to worry because He loves me.”

All five of the students were well-deserving of the awards they received. Tiffany Blake, associate professor of voice, expressed her feelings about the competition’s results. “I am very pleased,” she said. “I think the students did a great job both of singing and expressing their characters’ emotions.” She also had her own advice to offer to them as they continue to pursue music: “I would encourage them to continue to work hard to achieve their own definition of success in music. Success can come in many different forms and means different things to different people.”

Following the competition, Bradley, Wallace and Gehman each had messages they wished to share with their fellow competitors. Bradley expressed gratitude to the voice studio, saying, “I really love all of my fellow competitors, my friends in the music department. Each and every one of them has helped shape me into the musician, the person, and the artist that I am today.”

Wallace’s message was directed at specific friends: “Arika, I am very proud of the progress that you have made. You deserved it. Anya [Anyaleen], I hope that your award encourages you of your skill and helps inform your direction in life.”

In her message, Gehman shared how it felt to be on stage. “I’m so proud of everyone involved with [Singer of the Year] this year and it was an incredible honor to stand alongside you all.”

The annual competition provided all involved a great opportunity to share a part of themselves with everyone, and in doing so, learned about themselves and their passions for music. Hopefully they all continue to share their talents with the world far into the future.

About the UCA

For a full event calendar, more information, and to sign up for a free event e-newsletter, visit UCA.Colostate.edu. For an in-depth look behind the scenes of everything happening at the University Center for the Arts, read The Green Room digital magazine. Sign up for free at issuu.com/coloradostateuniversity_uca.[1]