Susquehanna University hit a high note at the Allegheny Mountain Chapter’s National Association of Teachers of Singing competition, earning an impressive 10 top placements — more than any other participating institution.
“Competitions like this give our students an invaluable chance to grow as artists. Preparing for and performing in front of expert judges builds not only their technical skill, but also their confidence,” said David Steinau, professor of music at Susquehanna University. “These experiences help singers discover what they’re capable of — and seeing so many of them succeed affirms their talent and diligent work.”
Singers in the competition sang solos in English and up to three other languages before a panel of judges. Winners from Susquehanna were:
- Samuel Decker ’28, music performance, Schwenksville, Pennsylvania,
- Jules Drewes ’26, music, Beachwood, New Jersey.
- Evan Finkbeiner ’26, music performance, Mount Bethel, Pennsylvania.
- Rachel Finkbeiner ’29, music education, Mount Bethel, Pennsylvania.
- Lauren Hackett ’27, music education, Mount Airy, Maryland.
- Kaida Heintzelman ’28, music education, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
- Christopher Jones ’29, music education, Watsontown, Pennsylvania.
- Simon Mendat ’28, music education, Grampian, Pennsylvania.
- Gillian Rasp ’29, music education, West Milford, New Jersey.
- Robert Speece ’26, music education, Reading, Pennsylvania.
Susquehanna also led with the highest number of semifinalists. The seven semifinalists were:
- Victoria Hall ’28, music education, Collegeville, Pennsylvania.
- Hunter Hepler ’29, music education, Montoursville, Pennsylvania.
- Andrew Lisk ’26, music, Downingtown, Pennsylvania.
- Lukas Michaels ’26, music education, Sunbury, Pennsylvania.
- Alyanna Montgomery ’29, music education, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
- Angel Ortiz ’28, music education, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania.
- Jenna Sullivan ’27, music education, Bensalem, Pennsylvania.
Students were prepared for the competition by Susquehanna voice faculty members Amanda Stante, assistant professor of music; Amy Caron, adjunct faculty in music; David O’Donnell, adjunct faculty in music; Tara Savarino, adjunct faculty in music; and Steinau.
Susquehanna will host the three-day regional National Association of Teachers of Singing competition in March 2026. This event will draw students and teachers from throughout Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware and West Virginia.
The Allegheny Mountain Chapter’s National Association of Teachers of Singing competition was hosted by Gettysburg College.
