The Rochester Oratorio Society announced today that 24 semi-finalists have been selected for the Rochester International Vocal Competition. 

The semi-finalists are (in alphabetical order): Veena Akama-Makia, Mezzo Soprano; Danielle Beckvermit, Soprano; CodyRay Caho, Baritone; Michelle Capano, Soprano; Margaret Carpenter Haigh, Soprano; Anicet Castel, Bass-Baritone; Michele Navarro Currenti, Soprano; Rachel DiBlasio, Mezzo-Soprano; Kara Dugan, Mezzo-Soprano; Kinneret Ely, Soprano; Allison Gish, Mezzo-Soprano; Makeda Hampton, Soprano; Emily Helenbrook, Soprano; Matthew Hill, Tenor; Yichen Li, Countertenor; Stephen Martin, Tenor; Keymon Murrah, Countertenor; Mary Beth Nelson, Mezzo-Soprano; Scott Purcell, Baritone; Alexander Scheuermann, Tenor; Anna Schubert; Soprano, Kyle Tingzon, Countertenor; Yvonne Trobe, Soprano; David Walton, Tenor.

“What started as a showcase of local talent has expanded in to an internationally respected and highly regarded competition in the classical vocal world,” said Eric Townell, Artistic Director of the Rochester Oratorio Society. “We look forward to another year of outstanding talent.”

The finalists will be announced in January 2021, and the winners and select finalists will perform in a virtual showcase to be streamed live on May 1, 2021. During the live stream, members of the public may vote on the Audience Favorite Award.

More information is available at www.ROSsings.org or at (585) 473-2234.

ABOUT THE ROCHESTER ORATORIO SOCIETY:

Founded in 1945, the Rochester Oratorio Society is the region’s leading choral ensemble. The Oratorio Society has toured the world, commissioned and premiered major works and collaborated with the region’s finest vocalists, instrumentalists and ensembles. The organization produces four to six performances annually as well as the Rochester International Vocal Competition each spring. Information on the Oratorio Society and its productions may be found at www.ROSsings.org or at (585) 473-2234.

ABOUT ROCHESTER INTERNATIONAL VOCAL COMPETITION

The Rochester International Vocal Competition is widely regarded as an essential step to advanced careers in professional vocal performance. Proceeds from the annual gala event support the artistic and educational agenda of the Rochester Oratorio Society, which is producing the competition for the 14th year. For more information on the Rochester International Vocal Competition, visit www.ROSsings.org.