On Nov. 14, eight voice students from the voice studio of Beth Preston participated in the Maine NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) Musical Theater Auditions.

In the past, the auditions have been live in front of judges at Bates College. This year, the students submitted video recordings for judges’ review. Each student was required to record two songs of contrasting styles from stage or movie musicals. One of their selections needed to be published prior to 1985. They were also required to demonstrate belt and “legit” style.

The NATS auditions are organized by age groups. Sophia Mansfield, Olive Pine and Nolah Pine competed in the Junior Division (5th and 6th graders). Violet Holbrook and Sophia Scott competed in Division I (7th and 8th graders). Harrison Pierpan competed in Division II (9th and 10th graders). Honora Boothby competed in Division III (11th and 12th graders), which had the largest group of submissions. Kelly-Ann Walker competed in the Avocational Division.

All of the students were judged on tone production, breathing, articulation, musicality, style, interpretation, diction, artistry, and full characterization of the lyrics. After the preliminary round, the judges for each division chose their top three singers to advance to the finals where they were scored by different judges.

The Heartwood Voice Studio is proud to announce that five of the eight participants placed in the finals: Junior Division 2nd Place, Sophia Mansfield; Division I 1st Place Sophia Scott and 2nd Place Violet Holbrook; Division II 2nd Place Harrison Pierpan and Avocational 3rd Place Kelly-Ann Walker. They will receive cash awards and certificates. The video submissions of all the NATS performers can be viewed on their Facebook page, facebook.com/mainenats.

Preston teaches voice lessons through Heartwood Regional Theater Company. The company’s educational goals include challenging and motivating young artists. Its youth programs provide training, discipline, and support and focus on unity, teamwork and ensemble. For more information on Heartwood youth programs, visit heartwoodtheater.org