The American Prize is a series of new, non-profit national competitions in the performing arts. The American Prize provides cash awards, professional adjudication as well as wide recognition for all who are selected. They select the best recorded performances annually by ensembles and individuals at the professional, university/college, church, community and secondary school levels.
Winthrop University’s Chorale and Chamber singers are made up by students from all different majors and backgrounds who have a common interest in singing and the performing arts. The two groups are offered as classes each semester but students have to audition prior to the start of the semester to be accepted into the choirs.
Most students in Winthrop Choirs perform with them for the entire academic year. This can mean not only in class rehearsals but extras during the week as needed. Winthrop Choirs often perform concerts in collaboration with each other so the music one choir is working on may also be worked on by other choirs at the same time before they all come together.
Neifert Enrique is a junior theatre major who is involved in both Chorale and Chamber singers. Making a commitment to both choirs can be very demanding, but Enrique has found a way to manage his schedule.
Madeline Seconi is a theatre performance major who is also involved in Chorale. “Choir impacts my life everyday because I’m making music with other people who love music,” Seconi said. She also remarked on a personal experience with chorale that was very touching and rewarding. “We went on a choir tour to different high schools in South Carolina and one of the songs performed is titled ‘Please Stay’ an anthem for hope by Jake Runestad,” Seconi said. “Dr.Mims later read us an email informing us that our performance of that song saved a student’s life. Our music gave new meaning to life for this child.”
Winthrop University is well represented by its Chorale and Chamber Singers. As the competition for The American Prize progresses, Winthrop Choirs are sure to keep on singing. For those who want to see the semi-finalists in action, Chorale and Chamber Singers will have their next concert on March 8 at 8:15 p.m. in McBryde Hall.
