Dana School of Music Students Win Top Honors in Music Competitions

Two students from Youngstown State University's Dana School of Music have recently earned top honors at regional music competitions, advancing to higher levels of competition and bringing recognition to YSU's music program.

Erika Walker, a Master of Music in Voice Performance student, claimed first place in her category at the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Great Lakes Regional Auditions. With this outstanding achievement, Walker has qualified to compete at the NATS National Competition, where she will represent both YSU and the Great Lakes region against top vocal performers from across the country.

Laura Bowden, BM, Music Performance, has been selected as one of only three individuals in her division to advance to the final round of the collegiate division at the Central Ohio Flute Association Competition. The prestigious competition, held annually at the Ohio State University Flute Festival, required Bowden to perform "Don't Forget to Write" as the required selection for the Recorded Round of her division. Bowden will now prepare a 20-minute recital for the final round of competition.

Both students will continue preparing for their upcoming competitions with the support of faculty mentors and peers. Their achievements underscore YSU's ongoing tradition of musical excellence and the bright future ahead for these promising artists.