April 21, 2026
Butler School of Music vocal students won big at the 2026 Greater Houston NATS Auditions, held this year at Sam Houston State University in Houston, Texas. Competing against top collegiate vocalists from across the region, the students earned multiple top placements and semifinalist honors.
Xavier Williams captured first place in Upper College Musical Theatre TBB and added a third-place finish in Upper College Classical TBB. Beverly Frankenfeld also got a first-place win in Lower College Commercial Music and a second-place finish in Lower College Musical Theatre Treble.
Frida Hernandez secured first place in Lower College Musical Theatre Treble, while Hudson Bell took first place in Lower College Musical Theatre TBB. Roslyn Ackermann received a third-place finish in Lower College Musical Theatre Treble.
Additional recognition went to Isabella Thornton, named a semifinalist in Upper College Musical Theatre Treble, and Brynn Bolton, who advanced to the semifinal round in Lower College Classical Treble.
The strong results reflect not only the talent and dedication of the students, but also the support of the Butler School of Music faculty and their collaborative pianist, Professor James Maverick, for his outstanding work in supporting these performers throughout the competition.