Music professor Dale Schriemer, who has worked with Coffey for several years, said that while other Grand Valley students have applied to the competition in the past, Coffey is the first to be accepted into the finals.
"Beyond Jason's obvious gift for singing, he is a creative actor and gifted musician," said Schriemer. "His love for singing and performing are his discipline, guide, and focus."
Coffey also won the recent Bel Canto vocal competition in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, earning him the role of baritone soloist in the Bel Canto Chorus fall production of Haydn's "Creation." He plans to pursue a master's degree in voice after completing his undergraduate degree.
