ETAMU Vocal Division Sweeps Finals at DFW Vocal Competition

The East Texas A&M University School of Music’s Vocal Division is thrilled to announce its outstanding achievement at the recent National Association of Teachers of Singing Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter Vocal Competition, where its talented vocalists secured top honors across multiple categories.

This remarkable victory marks a significant milestone in the Vocal Division's commitment to musical excellence and artistic expression.

The competition, held from March 7-8 at Collin College in Wylie, brought together some of the most skilled singers from across the Dallas/Fort Worth area in Contemporary Commercial Music, Musical Theatre and Classical categories.

Among the many highlights of the event, junior Emalyn Nicholson won the coveted James McKinney Outstanding Upper College Vocalist Award, while the following students secured first place across five different divisions: Lynzie Van Fleet, Emiliano Palomo, Evan Paniagua, Daniel Feliberty Irizarry, and Jun Gomez. Additionally, ETAMU students took home second place across three divisions: Emalyn Nicholson, Denniel Santos, and Erica Martinez. Finally, the following students collected third, fourth and fifth places: Erica Martinez, Bella Zitzelberger, Joseph Howard, Victoria Barron, and Anna Hernandez.

In total, East Texas A&M students secured 13 of the finalist places across seven divisions and two categories. One student, freshman Erica Martinez, was named a finalist for the Jennifer Glidden Singer of the Year Award. The award, named after former East Texas A&M Director of Opera, Dr. Jennifer Glidden, is given to singers who place in the finals in two or more categories. Martinez was a finalist in both Musical Theatre and Classical, earning her the coveted nomination.

“This incredible success is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our vocal scholars, faculty, and the entire Vocal Division family,” said Dr. Leanne Scaggs, Vocal Division Coordinator. “Their commitment to musical artistry and storytelling through song was truly inspiring, and we are beyond proud of their achievements.”

Looking ahead, the students remain committed to further honing their craft and preparing for future opportunities to showcase their talent in upcoming musical scenes performances on April 6 and 11, student recitals on April 13 and a Vocal Division tour from April 14 and 15.

For more information about the School of Music's Vocal Division and upcoming performances, please visit tamuc.edu/music or contact Leanne Scaggs at leanne.scaggs@tamuc.edu.