The Fredonia Chamber Choir at the State University of New York at Fredonia, under the direction of Dr. Vernon Huff, was named a National Finalist for the 2023 American Prize.
The choir was tapped as a finalist in the category of Choral Performance-college/university division (larger program). Other Finalists include the Georgia State University Tenor-Brass Choir, the USM Chamber Singers and the Ithaca College Choir.
Dr. Huff, who serves as Director of Choral Activities at SUNY Fredonia, noted, “It is thrilling that the Fredonia Chamber Choir is now a finalist for the American Prize in Choral Performance. This is a recognition of the incredible talent and dedication of the students and faculty in our voice and choral program and the entire School of Music.”
"This recognition provides yet another affirmation of the exceptional educational experiences that our faculty and staff provide to students. Our School of Music community is honored to join in celebrating the Chamber Choir and their achievement.” - School of Music Dean David Stringham
School of Music Dean David Stringham added, “It's no secret that Fredonia's School of Music is a premier destination for vocalists to develop their musicianship across a range of contexts — from applied voice study to musical theatre and opera to choral ensembles to vocal jazz. This recognition provides yet another affirmation of the exceptional educational experiences that our faculty and staff provide to students. Our School of Music community is honored to join in celebrating the Chamber Choir and their achievement.”
Works performed on the entry include "Laus Trinitati: by Hildegard von Bingen, arranged by Faith Morgan; "Drumsound Rises" by Daniel Elder; and "The Welcome Table," (traditional) arranged by Stacey V. Gibbs.
The American Prize National Nonprofit Competitions in the Performing Arts presents the annual awards. The description on its website states, “The American Prize is unique in scope and structure, designed to recognize and reward the best performing artists, directors, ensembles and composers in the United States at professional, college/university, community and high school levels, based on submitted recordings. Now in its 13th year, The American Prize was founded in 2010 and is awarded annually in many areas of the performing arts. Thousands of artists from all 50 states have derived benefit from their participation in the contests of The American Prize, representing literally hundreds of communities and arts organizations across the nation.”
The American Prize will announce winners in the division in the near future. To learn more about the prestigious national competition go online or follow the news on Facebook.
