CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa School of Music hosted the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) district student auditions on the UNI campus Nov. 7 and 8. The School of Music hosted approximately 250 students, 40 adjudicators and 45 pianists from universities, colleges, high schools and private studios throughout the state. The event was coordinated by UNI voice division faculty, along with more than 90 student organization and community volunteers and eight faculty and student pianists.

UNI had 11 students receive top honors at the auditions. These students claimed five first-place honors and six second- and third-place awards.

Andrew Cutler of Waukee earned first place in Division II. Megan Grey of Cedar Falls earned first place in Division VB. Leia Lensing of Solon earned first place in Division VII. Brandon Schneider of Antioch, Illinois, earned first place in Division VIII. Sarah Draffen of Reinbeck earned first place in Division IX.

Aaron DeSantiago of Council Bluffs earned second place in Division IB. Adam Brown of Urbandale earned second place in Division VI. Kayla Kjeldseth of Sioux City tied for second place in Division IX with Katherin Kneisley of Rochester, New Hampshire. Lauren Soukup of Marion earned third place in Division IB. Laurelin Berkley of Leclaire earned third place in Division III.

For additional information, contact Caroline Boehmer, UNI School of Music communication and operations coordinator, at 319-273-2028, caroline.boehmer@uni.edu or visit www.uni.edu/music.