Social - September 2003

Singers to compete for prizes

Published September 5, 2003

By DIANE TURBYFILL, Staff Writer

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Applications are being accepted for the Heafner/Williams Vocal Competition.

Now in its second year, the contest offers experience as well as cash awards for performers.

“There’s nothing more valuable for a singer than contests. It’s the best training ground for auditions,” says Carolyn Heafner, nationally-known opera singer and co-host of the event.

Heafner and her husband, Robert Williams, started the competition in 2002, but Heafner says it’s been a long time dream.

The inaugural event concluded with an event-filled weekend in April 2003. A variety show was held on Friday, April 11. The two-day competition was held on Saturday and Sunday in the Lincoln Cultural Center.

Heafner says the first year far-surpassed their expectations.

“It was success beyond our wildest dreams,” she says. “I was so proud of everyone from Lincolnton who came out.”

Markus Beam was awarded the top prize of $1,500.

Beam will perform a concert this year to kick off the event. Heafner says the variety show will also return by popular demand.

This year’s competitors should be singers ages 17 to 35 who are residents of or are enrolled in school in Burke, Catawba, Gaston, Cleveland, Lincoln or Iredell counties.

Applicants must present selections from at least three of the five repertoire categories — opera, operetta, oratorio, classical song and musical theater.

Audio recordings will be required for the first round of the competition. Finalists will be selected by a panel of judges and will proceed to the next level of competition.

Finalists will perform and compete in March at the cultural center.

Applications must be submitted by Dec. 19. A $20 entrance fee will be charged.

First place winner will receive $1,500; second prize is $1,000; and third prize is $500.

Heafner encourages all vocalists to compete.

“If you fit into any of the categories, you can tailor it to your strengths,” she says.

For more information, visit the Lincoln Cultural Center, 403 East Main St., or call 704-732-9055.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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