Youngstown State University students win top honors at prestigious singing competition

On Saturday, Youngstown State University Musical Theatre students Brooke May and Ryan Bedi achieved first-place victories in the Women’s Treble and Men’s Tenor, Baritone, and Bass Lower Collegiate Music Theatre Divisions, respectively, at the 2024 National Association of Teachers of Singing’s Tri-State Chapter “Student Auditions” Competition.

The event was held at West Virginia University in Morgantown, West Virginia.

The Tri-State Chapter of NATS encompasses Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Ohio, and West Virginia, drawing top talent from across the region.

Competitors in the “Student Auditions” must first pass a rigorous preliminary round before performing for an audience of esteemed vocal instructors who serve as adjudicators.

May and Bedi distinguished themselves with powerful performances that outshone their peers, securing their victories with a clear margin, according to the university.

The university said the wins highlight the strength of Youngstown State University’s music and theatre programs and its commitment to fostering exceptional talent.

“I’m proud of them for doing the brave and difficult thing of putting their art, selves, and talent on the stage to be judged by all. They deserve the awards,” said Musical Theatre professor Dr. Charles Dugan.