Grand Vallley sweeps Opera GR competition

ALLENDALE, Mich - Three Grand Valley State University students swept the board, taking the top three places in this year's Opera Grand Rapids Collegiate Voice Competition.

The students were among nine other finalists who preformed in the concert. Each finalist sang two songs in a foreign language.

First place was given to Christine Amon, who sang "Du gai soleil, plein de flame" from Massenet's Werther, and "V'adoro, pupille" from Handel's Giulio Cesare. Ashly Kochanski received second for her performance of "The Willow Song" from Moore's The Ballad of Baby Doe and "Der Holle Rache" from Mozart's Die Zauberflote. Finally, third place was awarded to Melissa Vandenbrink for her rendition of "Donde Lietausci" from Puccini's La Boheme and "One Kiss" from Romberg's The New Moon.

"It was rather difficult for the judges to narrow down their choices to just three winners. It was very exciting to see our students win all three of those places," said Professor Kathryn Stieler of Grand Valley's music department.

The event, which was organized by the Opera Grand Rapids Education Committee, was held March 30 in Ketschmer Hall on the campus of Aquinas College. This is the fourth year that Grand Valley has sent students to the competition.

"We always have the greatest number of students in the competition," said Steiler. "Each year, at least one of our students has ranked in the top three."

The competition was designed to not only showcase the vocals of students from area colleges and a chance to win cash prizes, but also give the students a chance to receive one-on-one feedback from judges.

"For me, the experience was quite thrilling," said Christine Amon. "The judges for the finals were well respected professors and musicians, one of which was John Varineau, associate conductor of the Grand Rapids Symphony. It was quite an honor to be recognized by these experienced musicians."

Participation in the Collegiate Voice Competition is not currently a requirement for Grand Valley vocal performance students, but it is highly recommended by faculty.

"The overall quality of performances in the competition has improved each year. I think this is a result of the precedent the competition sets for the younger, up-and-coming artists," said Stieler.

For more information contact Kathryn Stieler at (616) 331-3391.