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George Shirley Vocal Competition

GSVC Winners

From its inception in 2010, the George Shirley Vocal Competition has welcomed hundreds of vocal competitors from high school, college, and pre-professional tracks, as well as young composers to highlight the rich history of the African American Diasporic repertoire.

Our competitors have been educated and inspired to help carry the torch of this music and to ensure its perseverance for generations to come. Below is a gallery highlighting wonderful moments through past years of the competition.

Past Competitions

2024 Winners

With a historic number of applicants in 2024, we are proud of all who competed. Thank you for helping us honor, our founder, George Shirley on his 90th birthday by showing him his legacy in action. We want to congratulate all of the winners of this year’s competition cycle!

High School Division

  • Drucilla Dumas, Mezzo-Soprano, Interlochen Arts Academy
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Sloane O’Neill, Soprano, Grosse Pointe Woods
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
    (Sponsored by several donors; including Ciluffo family)
  • Jillian Nixon, Mezzo-Soprano, Grosse Pointe Woods
    Third Prize, High School Division: $600
    (Sponsored by Chauncey Packer)
  • Hannah Mathew, Soprano, Washtenaw International High School
    Encouragement Award, High School Division: $250

Collegiate Division

  • Amber Rogers, Soprano, University of Michigan
    First Prize, College Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by anonymous donor)
  • Mariah Graves, Soprano, Sam Houston State University
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,500
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)
  • Jabari Lewis, Tenor, University of Michigan
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
    (Sponsored by Sylvia Turner Holified and siblings in memory of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Talmage L. Turner)
  • Tiara Abraham, Soprano, Indiana University
    Encouragement Award, Collegiate Division: $500
  • Pelagia Pamel, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Encouragement Award, Collegiate Division: $500

Pre-Professional Division

  • Brianna Robinson, Soprano, Boston Lyric Opera – Jane and Steven Akin Emerging Artist
    First Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $5,000
    (Sponsored by Carrie Wilson)
  • Sarah Rosales, Soprano, Des Moines Metro Opera, Frank R. Brownell, III Apprentice Artist Program
    Second Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Louise Toppin in memory of Edgar and Antionette Toppin)
  • Wayne Arthur, Baritone, Boston University Opera Institute
    Third Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $3,000
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)

International Division

  • Brennan Alleyne, Tenor, Royal Northern College of Music
    First Prize, International Division: $500
    (Sponsored by Patrice Eaton)
  • Samuel Oloniyo, Baritone, The Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON School of Music)
    Second Prize, International Division $300
    (Sponsored by Susan Ignasiak)
  • Merel-Magali Cox, Mezzo-Soprano, Royal Northern College of Music
    Third Prize, International Division $200
    (Sponsored by Videmus)
  • Simeon Hána, Baritone, Janáček Academy of Performing Arts
    Encouragement Prize, International Division: $50
    (Sponsored by Videmus)
  • Sophie Illiaifar, Mezzo-Soprano, Royal Northern College of Music
    International Student Art Song Prize
    (Sponsored by Susan Ignasiak: $100)

Composer's Division

  • Jacob Lay, Career Professional, The Atlanta Opera
    Art Song Composition Prize (for African American Composers): $1,000
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)
  • Kaswanna Kanyinda (Apprentice Fort Worth Opera) and Brianna Ware-Boggs (DMA University of Wisconsin-Madison)
    The Catherine Russell Composer Award: $2,500
    For a newly commissioned work to premiere in Rochester, NY.
    (Sponsored by Opera on Tap Rochester)
  • Sarah Rosales, Soprano, Des Moines Metro Opera, Frank R. Brownell, III Apprentice Artist Program
    Prize for a newly commissioned work (awarded to a singer): $1,500
    (Sponsored by Karen Slack)

Special Prizes

  • Brianna Robinson, Soprano, Boston Lyric Opera – Jane and Steven Akin Emerging Artist
    Post-Graduate, Pre-Professional Division
    Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Myra Merritt)
  • Paula Duva-Rodriguez, Mezzo-Soprano, Michigan State University
    Masters, Pre-Professional Division
    Mezzo Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
  • Dorian Dillard, III, Tenor, University of Michigan
    Masters, Pre-Professional Division
    Tenor Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Carrie Wilson in honor of George Shirley)
  • Joseph Parrish, Baritone, The Juilliard School
    Artist Diploma student, Pre-Professional Division
    Baritone Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by James and Bonnie Rose in honor of Christal Rose)
  • Paul Hill, Bass-baritone, Post-Graduate, University of Michigan
    Honorable Mention, Pre-Professional Division: $500 (Sponsored by James and Bonnie Rose)
  • André Ferguson, Countertenor, Mississippi State University
    Senior, Collegiate Division
    Countertenor Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Darryl Taylor)
  • Colleen Beucher, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Career Professional, Pre-Professional Division
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Makaela Shade-Alexander, Soprano, University of Houston
    Career Professional, Pre-Professional Division
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Brianna Robinson, Soprano, Boston Lyric Opera – Jane and Steven Akin Emerging Artist
    Post-Graduate, Pre-Professional Division
    Contemporary Art Song Prize for Pre-professional division (Composed after the year 2000): $500 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Wayne Arthur, Baritone, Boston University Opera Institute
    Post-Graduate, Pre-Professional Division
    Contemporary Spiritual Prize for Pre-professional division (Composed after the year 2000): $500 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Candace Williams, Soprano, University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music
    Artist Diploma student, Pre-Professional Division
    Operatic Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Brianna Robinson, Soprano, Boston Lyric Opera – Jane and Steven Akin Emerging Artist
    Post-Graduate, Pre-Professional Division
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Amber Rogers, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Collegiate Division
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Jared Kellman-Medina, Baritone, University of Texas at San Antonio
    Senior, Collegiate Division
    Spiritual Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Patrice Eaton)
  • Mariah Graves, Soprano, Sam Houston State University
    Collegiate Division
    Women Composers Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Charsie R. Sawyer and Laura English Robinson)
  • Thalia Moore, Soprano, California State University Fullerton
    Pre-Professional Division
    The Jay-Red-Koh Encouragement Award for Self-Identifying LGBTQIA+ Singer: $1,000 (Sponsored by Opera on Tap Rochester)
  • Jadyn Riggs, Soprano, University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music
    Senior, Collegiate Division
    Terri Braxton Encouragement Award: $1,000 (Sponsored by Opera on Tap Rochester)

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2023 Winners

View the YouTube playlist of the 2023 GSVC.

High School Division

  • Sarah Wright, Soprano, Hartland High School
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Sloane O’Neill, Soprano, Grosse Pointe North
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
    (Sponsored by Earl Coleman and Our Own Thing Chorale)
  • Rachael Farquharson, Soprano, Early College Alliance at Eastern Michigan University
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500
    (Sponsored by John M. Cilluffo)

Collegiate Division

  • Jack Morin, Baritone, University of Michigan
    First Prize, College Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by anonymous donor)
  • Dominique Cooper, Mezzo-Soprano, Eastern Michigan University
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,500
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)
  • Aurora Krueger, Mezzo-Soprano, Grand Valley State University
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
    (Sponsored by several donors)

Pre-Professional Division

  • Daniel Rich, Baritone, Lindemann Young Artist Development Program
    First Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $5,000
    (Sponsored by several donors)
  • Adia Evans, Soprano, Fort Worth Opera Resident Artist Program
    Second Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Louise Toppin in memory of Edgar and Antionette Toppin)
  • Jacob Lay, Baritone, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
    Third Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $3,000
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)

International Division

  • John Onosolease, Baritone, The Muson School of Music (Lagos, Nigeria)
    First Prize (tie): $500
    (Sponsored by Susan and Dorothy Ignasiak and Videmus)

  • Sophie Illiaifar, Mezzo-Soprano, Royal Northern College of Music (Manchester, England)
    First Prize (tie): $500
    (Sponsored by Susan and Dorothy Ignasiak and Videmus)

  • Evgenya Kühme, Mezzo-Soprano, University of Music Trossingen (Trossingen, Germany)
    Second Prize: $250
    (Sponsored by Susan and Dorothy Ignasiak and Videmus)

Composer's Division

  • Willie Cornish, Professional, Furman University
    First Prize, Composers Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)

Special Prizes

  • Adia Evans, Soprano, Fort Worth Opera Resident Artist Program
    Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Myra Merritt)
  • Celeste Morales, Soprano, Manhattan School of Music
    Soprano Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Myra Merritt)
  • HaYoung Jung, Mezzo-Soprano, University of Michigan
    Mezzo Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
  • Wayne Mkhize, Tenor
    Tenor Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Carrie and Magnus Wilson in honor of George Shirley)
  • Daniel Rich, Baritone, Lindemann Young Artist Development Program
    Baritone Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by James and Bonnie Rose in honor of Christal Rose)
  • Aurora Krueger, Mezzo-Soprano, Grand Valley State University
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Giovani Malcolm, Baritone, Indiana University
    Art Song Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Seth-Emmanuel Clarke, Bass-Baritone, Southern Methodist University
    Contemporary Art Song Prize for Pre-professional division: $500
    Composed after the year 2000 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Wayne Mkhize, Tenor
    Contemporary Art Song Prize for Pre-professional division: $250
    Composed after the year 2000 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Daniel Rich, Baritone, Lindemann Young Artist Development Program
    Contemporary Spiritual Prize for Pre-professional division: $500
    Composed after the year 2000 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Daniel Rich, Baritone, Lindemann Young Artist Development Program
    Operatic Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Amber Merritt, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Operatic Aria Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Jacob Lay, Baritone, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Dominique Cooper, Mezzo-Soprano, Eastern Michigan University
    Women Composers Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Charsie R. Sawyer)
  • Wayne Mkhize, Tenor
    Prize for a new commission: $1,500 (Sponsored by Karen Slack)

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2022 Winners

View the YouTube playlist of our 2022 Winners.

High School Division

  • Ella Vaughn, Soprano, Walnut Hills High School
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Sarah Wright, Soprano, Hartland High School
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
    (Sponsored by the Meadows family in memory of Barbara Meadows)

Collegiate Division

  • Seth-Emmanuel Clarke, Bass-Baritone, Southern Methodist University
    First Prize, College Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Harold and Cherie Bridges Patrick in memory of Lynn Bridges)

  • Elizabeth Hanje, Soprano, Oberlin Conservatory
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,500
    (Sponsored by James and Bonnie Rose in honor of James and Carole Rose)

  • Maia Aramburu, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
    (Sponsored by The Patterson Foundation)

Pre-Professional Division

  • Tshilidzi Ndou, Baritone, Southern Methodist University
    First Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $5,000
    (Sponsored by Carrie and Magnus Wilson in memory of Wallace D. Brown and Janet Hutchenreuther)
  • Colleen Cole Beucher, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Second Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Louise Toppin in memory of Edgar and Antionette Toppin)
  • Denique Isaac, Soprano, Indiana University
    Third Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $3,000
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)

International Division

  • Shanice Skinner, Soprano, Royal Conservatoire of The Hague
    International Division Prize: $500
    (Sponsored by Videmus)
  • Lucy Fairmond, Soprano, Royal Northern College of Music
    International Division Prize: $500
    (Sponsored by Videmus)

Composer's Division

  • Nikea Randolph, Graduate Student, University of Birmingham (UK)
    First Prize, Composer Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)
  • Willie Cornish, Career Professional, Furman University
    Second Prize, Composer Division: $500
  • Ronald Walton, Graduate Student, University of the District of Columbia
    Third Prize, Composer Division: $250

Special Prizes

  • Jeanette Lee, Mezzo Soprano, Boston University
    Mezzo Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
  • Tshilidzi Ndou, Baritone, Southern Methodist University
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Colleen Cole Beucher, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Encouragement Prize, Spiritual: $250 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Sarah Rogers, Soprano, Boston University Opera Institute
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Pelagia Pamel, Mezzo-Soprano, University of Michigan
    Encouragement Prize, Art Song: $500 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Colleen Cole Beucher, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Myra Merritt-Grant)
  • Tyrese Byrd, Tenor, University of Michigan
    Tenor Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Carrie Wilson in honor of George Shirley)
  • Seth-Emmanuel Clarke, Bass-Baritone, Southern Methodist University
    Baritone Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by James and Bonnie Rose in honor of Christal Rose)
  • Colleen Cole Beucher, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Operatic Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Victoria Ellington, Soprano, University of Cincinnati College – Conservatory of Music
    Women Composers Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Charsie R. Sawyer)
  • Tshilidzi Ndou, Baritone, Southern Methodist University
    Contemporary Art Song Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Tiffany Williams, Soprano, Indiana University: Jacobs School of Music
    Contemporary Spiritual Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Tyrese Byrd, Tenor, University of Michigan
    Prize for a new commission: $1,000 (Sponsored by Karen Slack)

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2021 Winners

High School Division

  • Travis Guillory, Tenor, Cascia Hall Preparatory School
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Zaniaiah Billups, Mezzo-Soprano, Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
    (Sponsored by the Meadows family in memory of Barbara Meadows)
  • Jana Harmon, Soprano, Veritas School
    Third Prize – Tie, High School Division: $500
    (Sponsored by John M. Cilluffo)
  • Anne-Marie Atanga – Soprano, Genesee Early College
    Third Prize – Tie, High School Division: $500
    (Sponsored by John M. Cilluffo)

Collegiate Division

  • Cinderella Ksebati, Soprano, University of Michigan
    First Prize, College Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Harold and Cherie Bridges Patrick in memory of Lynn Bridges)
  • Nina Anderson, Soprano, University of Maryland
    Second Prize – Tie, College Division: $2,500
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)
  • Lindsey Reynolds, Soprano, Curtis Institute of Music
    Second Prize – Tie, College Division: $2,500
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)
  • Jillian Tate, Soprano, University of Maryland
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500

Pre-Professional Division

  • Nicholas Davis, Baritone, Chicago College of Performing Arts
    First Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $5,000
    (In memory of Wallace D. Brown and Janet Hutchenreuther)
  • Ardeen Pierre, Soprano, Southern Methodist University
    Second Prize, Pre-Professional: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Louise Toppin in memory of Edgar and Antionette Toppin)
  • Tiffany Williams, Soprano, Indiana University
    Third Prize, Pre-Professional: $3,000
    (In honor of James and Carole Rose)
  • Andrew Smith, Bass-Baritone, Catholic University of America
    Encouragement Prize, Pre-Professional: $1,000
  • Kanisha Feliciano, Soprano, Rice University
    Encouragement Prize, Pre-Professional: $1,000

Composer's Division

  • B.E. Boykin, Composer, Career Professional
    First Prize, Composers Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)
  • DelShawn Taylor, Composer, Career Professional
    Second Prize, Composers Division: $500
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)

Special Prizes

  • Ardeen Pierre, Soprano, Southern Methodist University
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Travis Guillory, Tenor, Cascia Hall Preparatory School
    Encouragement Prize, Spiritual: $250 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Melissa Joseph, Soprano, Georgia State University
    Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Myra Merritt)
  • Ardeen Pierre, Soprano, Southern Methodist University
    Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Friends of Camilla and the Danville, Virginia Concert Association)
  • Myah Rose Paden, Mezzo-Soprano, University of Michigan
    Mezzo-Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
  • Ardeen Pierre, Soprano, Southern Methodist University
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Danielle Beckvermit, Soprano, Mannes School of Music at The New School
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Travis Guillory, Tenor, Cascia Hall Preparatory School
    Tenor Prize, Spiritual: $1,000 (Sponsored by Carrie Wilson in honor of George Shirley)
  • Nicholas Davis, Baritone, Chicago College of Performing Arts
    Baritone Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by James and Bonnie Rose in honor of Christal Rose)
  • Tiffany Williams, Soprano, Indiana University
    Operatic Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Ardeen Pierre, Soprano, Southern Methodist University
    Operatic Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Jillian Tate, Soprano, University of Maryland
    Women Composers Prize: $500 (Donated by Charsie R. Sawyer)
  • Melissa Joseph, Soprano, Georgia State University
    Contemporary Art Song Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)
  • Darius Gilliard, Tenor, University of Michigan
    Contemporary Spiritual Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Kenneth Overton)

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2020 Winners

During these unprecedented times, we utilized various technologies to continue celebrating our wonderful talent and putting on our competition events. Many thanks to the competitors who presented their compositions virtually on May 16, 2020.

Virtual Composer's Competition

  • Jerrell Gray
    Career Professional, Art Song Composition Prize: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)
  • Ethan Godfrey
    Graduate Student, University of Arkansas
    Art Song Composition Prize: $500
    (Sponsored by Michigan Opera Theater)
  • Jarrett Roseborough
    Graduate Student, Oakwood University and George State University
    Art Song Composition Prize: $250
    (In Memoriam of Alma Mayson)

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2019 Winners

High School Division

  • Simone Gallion, Soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Amber Rogers, Soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
    (Sponsored by the Link Incorporated, Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter)
  • Kianna Kelly-Futch, Soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500
    (Sponsored by John M. Cilluffo)

Collegiate Division

  • Logan Dell’Acqua, Baritone, University of Michigan
    First Prize, College Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Harold and Cherie Bridges Patrick in memory of Lynn Bridges)
  • Matthew Soibelman, Bass, California State University
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,500
  • Cinderella Ksebati, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
  • Nina Anderson, Soprano, University of Maryland
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500

 

Pre-Professional Division

  • Christine Jobson, Soprano
    First Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $5,000
    (Sponsored by Anonymous Donor)
  • Matthew Reese, Countertenor
    Second Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Louise Toppin in memory of Edgar and Antionette Toppin)
  • Jazmine Olwalia, Mezzo-soprano
    Third Prize, Pre-Professional Division: $3,000
    (Sponsored by James and Carole Rose)

Special Prizes

  • Simone Gallion, Soprano, Duke Ellington School of the Arts
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Jazmine Olwalia, Mezzo-soprano
    Mezzo Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
  • Matthew Reese, Countertenor
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Logan Dell’Acqua, Baritone, University of Michigan
    Baritone Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by James and Carole Rose in honor of Christal Rose)
  • Christine Jobson, Soprano
    Operatic Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Simone Gallion, Soprano, Duke Ellington School of the Arts
    Women Composers Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Charsie Sawyer)

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2018 Winners

High School Division

  • Kyree Allen, Tenor, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Simone Gallion, Soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
  • India Brown, Soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500
    (Sponsored by John M. Cifullo)

Collegiate Division

  • Korin Gregory Thomas-Smith, Baritone, University of Toronto
    First Prize, College Division: $4,000
    (Sponsored by Harold and Cherie Bridges Patrick in honor of Lynn Bridges)
  • Lindsey Reynolds, Soprano, Curtis Institute of Music
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,500
    (Sponsored by the Toppin Family and Sphinx/ Exigence Vocal Ensemble)
  • Kristine Overman, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
    (Sponsored by the American Spiritual Ensemble)

Composer's Division

  • Khyle Wooten, Career Professional, Atlanta Heights Charter School
    Art Song Composition Prize: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)

Special Prizes

  • Kyree Allen, Tenor, Duke Ellington School of the Arts
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Jamie Sharp, Mezzo-soprano, University of Michigan
    Mezzo Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
  • Kyree Allen, Tenor, Duke Ellington School of the Arts
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Taylor Adams, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Women Composers Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Charsie Sawyer)
  • Korin Gregory Thomas-Smith, Baritone, University of Toronto
    Operatic Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)

2017 Winners

High School Division

  • Victoria Hill, Soprano
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Kyree Allen, Tenor, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
  • Zaria Aikens, Soprano, Grosse Pointe High School
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500
  • Deijah Knight, Mezzo-soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500

Collegiate Division

  • Andrew Adridge, Baritone, University of Toronto
    First Prize, College Division: $3,250
    (Sponsored by Harold and Cherie Bridges Patrick in honor of Lynn Bridges and Links, Inc.)
  • Victoria Ellington, Soprano, Oberlin College and Conservatory of Music
    First Prize, College Division: $3,250
    (Sponsored by Harold and Cherie Bridges Patrick in honor of Lynn Bridges and Links, Inc.)
  • Shenika John Jordan, Soprano, University of Michigan & Florida State University
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
  • Emily Helenbrook, Soprano, Eastman Conservatory of Music
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500

Composer's Division

  • Brandon Spencer, Claflin University
    First Prize for Art Song and Composition: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Marquita Lister)
  • B. E. Boykin, Spelman College & Westminster Choir College
    Second Prize for Art Song and Composition: $300
  • Marques Garrett, Hampton University, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, & Florida State University
    Third Prize for Art Song and Composition: $250

Special Prizes

  • Andrew Adridge, Baritone, University of Toronto
    Opera Aria Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Patricia Miller)
  • Emily Helenbrook, Soprano, Eastman Conservatory
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Wills Patterson)
  • Kyree Allen, Tenor, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Deijah Knight, Mezzo-soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Mezzo-Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
  • John Jun, Tenor, Calvin College
    Women Composer Prize: $500 (Sponsored by Charsie Sawyer)
  • Breanna Ghostone, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Finalist Prize, College Division: $250

2016 Winners

High School Division

  • Jeffrey Redd, Baritone, Grosse Pointe High School
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
    (Sponsored by Zingerman’s Community of Businesses)
  • Ivana Butler, Soprano, Detroit School of the Arts
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
  • Anthony Anderson, Baritone, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500

Collegiate Division

  • De’Ron McDaniel, Baritone, Oberlin Conservatory of Music
    First Prize, College Division: $3,000
    (Sponsored by Harold and Cherie Bridges Patrick in honor of Lynn Bridges)
  • Victoria Offutt, Mezzo-soprano, Central Michigan University
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,000
  • Kari Hart, Wayne State University
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
  • Shenika John Jordan, University of Michigan
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500

Special Prizes

  • Victoria Offutt, Mezzo-soprano, Central Michigan University
    Mezzo Soprano Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Hilda Harris)
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Wills Patterson)
  • Shenika John Jordan, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Breanna Ghostone, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Women Composer Prize: $250 (Sponsored by Charsie Sawyer)

2015 Winners

High School Division

  • Kynadi Echols, Soprano, Grosse Pointe North High School
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
  • Blaire Windom, Soprano, The Detroit School of the Arts
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
  • Anthony Anderson, Baritone, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500
  • Zhane Taylor-Watson, Soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Fourth Prize, High School Division: $250
  • Desne Wharton, Soprano, Duke Ellington School for the Arts
    Fifth Prize, High School Division: $200

Collegiate Division

  • Prentiss Mouton, Baritone, Louisiana State University
    First Prize, College Division: $2,500
  • Aaron Casey, Baritone, University of Houston
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,000
  • Christabel Nunoo, Soprano, University of Michigan
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
  • Kaswanna Kanyinda, Mezzo-soprano, University of Michigan
    Finalist Prize, College Division: $1,250
  • Dorian Dillard, Tenor, Claflin University
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,000

Special Prizes

  • Blaire Windom, Soprano, The Detroit School of the Arts
    Women Composers Prize: $750 (Sponsored by Charsie Sawyer)
  • Prentiss Mouton, Baritone, Louisiana State University
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)
  • Kaswanna Kanyinda, Mezzo-soprano, University of Michigan
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)

2014 Winners

High School Division

  • Daniel Peacock, Tenor, Cass Technical High School
    First Prize, High School Division: $1,000
  • Shelvin Burns, Tenor, Cass Technical High School
    Second Prize, High School Division: $750
  • Taylor Mobley, Soprano, Grosse Pointe South High School
    Third Prize, High School Division: $500
  • Leiloni Campbell, Soprano, Detroit School of the Arts
    Fourth Prize, High School Division: $250
  • Derrick Bynum, Baritone, Detroit School of the Arts
    Fourth Prize, High School Division: $250

Collegiate Division

  • Corinthia Sims, Soprano, Claflin University
    First Prize, College Division: $2,500
  • Claire Lopatka, Soprano, Indiana University
    Second Prize, College Division: $2,000
  • Dorian Dillard, Tenor, Claflin University
    Third Prize, College Division: $1,500
  • Michael Smith, Baritone, University of Michigan
    Finalist Prize, College Division: $750
  • Kaswanna Kanyinda, Mezzo-soprano, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Finalist Prize, College Division: $750

Special Prizes

  • Daniel Peacock, Tenor, Cass Technical High School
    Spiritual Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Robert Sims)
  • Claire Lopatka, Soprano, Indiana University
    Art Song Prize: $1,000 (Sponsored by Willis Patterson)

2013 Winners

High School Division

  • DaQuan Benford, Tenor, Detroit School of the Arts
    Encouragement Award Winner: $250
  • Tori Darnell, Mezzo-soprano, Milan High School
    Encouragement Award Winner: $250

2012 Winners

High School Division

  • Philip Lee, Bass Baritone, Cass Technical High School
    First Prize, High School Division
  • Darshaya Oden, Soprano, Detroit School of the Arts
    Second Prize, High School Division
  • Robert Moss II, Tenor, Detroit School of the Arts
    Third Prize, High School Division
  • Demetra Hawkins, Soprano, Detroit School of the Arts
    Fourth Prize, High School Division

2011 Winners

High School Division

  • Corinithia Sims, Soprano, Detroit School of the Arts
    First Prize, High School Division: $400
  • Brandon Spencer, Baritone, Detroit School of the Arts
    Second Prize, High School Division: $300
  • Dorian Dillard II, Tenor, Detroit School of the Arts
    Third Prize, High School Division: $300
  • Chantel Woodward, Soprano, Detroit School of the Arts
    Finalist Prize, High School Division: $100
  • Danielle Wafer, Soprano, Detroit School of the Arts
    Finalist Prize, High School Division: $100

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