So, BIG NEWS.  I have been selected as one of the semi-finalists for the 2011 Eleanor McCollum Competition for Young Singers at Houston Grand Opera.  YAY!  I fly down on January 28, and it is going to be a blast.  I got in touch with some of my great friends and they are coming.  My mom and my sister are flying down as well.  I can't wait.  I feel so ready for whatever happens.  I know it is cliche, but it really doesn't matter if I win or lose.  It just amazes me how things have come full circle.  It was just a year ago that a certain lady, who shall remain nameless said to me that "Houston needs a singer like you."  And look, I'm in the semi-finals.  I have to take 8 pieces for the competition.  I don't know if I should spill the beans on what they are, but I guess it doesn't really matter.  We can all get there and sing the same eight pieces and there would be eight uniquely different interpretations.  

 So, here goes.  These are my five operatic pieces.

1. Fuor del mar from Idomeneo by Mozart
2. Mit Gewitter und Sturm from Der Fliegende Hollander by Wagner
3. Salut! demeure chaste et pure from Faust by Gounod
4. It was somethin' I could stroke from Of Mice and Men by Floyd
5. New York Lights from A View from the Bridge

These are my non-operatic pieces

1. Phidyle by Duparc
2. Sence you went away by H. Leslie Adams
3. Ride on King Jesus from the Cantata by John Carter

This list excites me.  I love all of the arias.  The non-operatic pieces really show what I love to sing.  Don't get me wrong, I love opera, but these other pieces hold a special place in my heart.  I will keep you all posted on what is going on as the competition gets closer.  Wish me luck...