Three Oberlin Conservatory Students Receive Awards in Sorantin Competition By Charity Johnson ('99)
			Artist Diploma student Zara Barrett '01 of Chelmer, Australia Three Oberlin students took awards in the annual Sorantin Young Artist Competition, held in San Angelo, Texas, Nov. 17-19. Percussionist Adam Sliwinski, '01, of Hudson, Ohio, was alternate winner in the competition's final round, and winner of the instrumental division. In the voice division, artist diploma student Zara Barrett '01, of Chelmer, Australia, was alternate winner, and Michael Preacely, '01, of Chicago, Illinois, received an honorable mention. Sliwinski studies with Professor of Percussion Michael Rosen; Barrett and Preacely study with Wheeler Professor of Singing Richard Miller. Adam Sliwinski, '01, of Hudson, Ohio Nine Oberlin students were among the international artists to compete in the event, which is sponsored by the San Angelo Symphony Association. The Sorantin includes preliminary and semi-finals rounds in four divisions: vocal, strings, piano, and instrumental. A winner from each division competes in the finals round, which is a public recital. The finals winner performs a concerto with the San Angelo Symphony as part of their 2000-2001 concert season. "I was humbled and overwhelmed to do as well as I did." says Sliwinski. "There were so many wonderful performances at the competition." The experience was also a chance to connect with other Oberlin students, Sliwinski says. "There was a real sense of fellowship and goodwill in the Oberlin group, and we created a bond. The relaxed atmosphere was less competitive, and more supportive." Michael Preacely, '01, of Chicago, Illinois Barrett agrees. "The Oberlin group had chances to socialize and get to know one another. Everyone was friendly and encouraging, and this was a wonderful part of the competition." The competition's locale also added to the experience, says Sliwinski. "There is a thriving arts community in San Angelo; the people of the community were so warm and friendly, and were very involved in welcoming the contestants. They were definitely enthusiastic about the event, and excited to hear the performances."
			Back to the Backstage Pass