Opera students win voice scholarships in annual competition

In an impressive display of vocal skill and talent, three PSU voice students earned prestigious scholarships at the annual PSU Scholarship Competition, part of PSU Opera’s “A Celebration of Opera” on February 25. The afternoon began with a concert featuring PSU faculty member Daniel Mobbs (Bass-baritone), who has performed at the Metropolitan Opera, Opera Philadelphia, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Los Angeles Opera, Portland Opera and many others. Mobbs was joined by PSU students March Steiger (soprano) and Johnny Derby (baritone). The trio gave an exquisite performance of Act 2 of Vincenzo Bellini’s “I Puritani.” 

Up next, eight gifted voice students, accompanied by pianist Dr. Chuck Dillard,  performed solo pieces before an esteemed panel of judges including Susan McBerry of Lewis and Clark College; Karen Esquivel, University of Oregon opera director; and Nicholas Fox, chorus master and assistant conductor at Portland Opera. Following the performances, the judges announced the winners: 

First Place: Britt Doom, David A. Jimerson Endowed Vocal Scholarship, $5,000

Second Place: Sequoia Robinette, Richard Helzer Opera Scholarship, $3,500

Third Place: Jere Burkholder, Richard Helzer Opera Scholarship, $1,500  

Portland State University School of Music & Theater extends its congratulations to everyone who performed, thanks to our audience for cheering on these talented students, and deepest gratitude to David Jimerson and Richard Helzer for their generosity.

Visit the PSU Opera website to learn more about the PSU Opera program. Donations in support of this program can be made here.