November 13, 2024
Students from the Butler School of Music made an impressive showing at the 74th annual TEXOMA Regional Conference of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), held November 6-9 at Sam Houston University. The conference featured a mix of performances, presentations, and masterclasses, showcasing talent from across the region. Professors Liliana Guerrero and Mikhail Smigelski accompanied the students, providing support and guidance throughout the event.
David Roitberg and Albert Lee in a masterclass
The conference included poster presentations by Sidney Becktold and Afsoneh Esfandiari, while David Roitberg and Afsoneh Esfandiari were selected to participate in masterclasses led by renowned vocalists Albert Lee and David Portillo, respectively.
Poster presentations by Sidney Becktold and Afsoneh Esfandiari
In the competitive auditions, Maya Wilson earned a 2nd-place finish, and Diane Shim was named a finalist in her category. Additionally, Afsoneh Esfandiari, Esther Hernandez, Nikos Warren, Xavier Williams, and Nathaniel Payan advanced to the semifinals.
Professors Liliana Guerrero and Mikhail Smigelski celebrate the wins of their students, Diane Shim and Maya Wilson
The Butler students who participated in the conference included David Roitberg, Nathaniel Payan, Xavier Williams, Nikos Warren, Esther Hernandez, Afsoneh Esfandiari, Diane Shim, and Maya Wilson. Accompanying them on piano was Yu-Hsin Teng.
Afsoneh Esfandiari performs in a masterclass
The Butler School of Music celebrates these students' accomplishments, recognizing their hard work and dedication in representing their school at such a high level.