In early October, 14 students from the PHS choir auditioned for the Opera Theatre of St. Louis Young Artist in Training Program. After 80 auditions from a 90 miles radius, only 10 girls and 10 boys were selected.  Five of the 20 students selected were from Pattonville High School

These students are JaNya Cruise (10), Hannah Radican (10), Grace Radican (10), Kristen Jones (11), and Tony Washington (11).  Voice instructors from SIUE, Wash U, and Webster will divide them into studios. Two of the students will study with a team from UMSL, and the other three will sing with a team from Wash U. They will receive voice lessons from a college professor, have master classes with famous opera singers, give their own recital in January, and give a final scholarship recital in April or May. 

In addition to these benefits, the students will go on retreats, attend performances at the Fox, Power Hall, and the Sheldon Recital Hall. The program will also take them to the various colleges where they can audition for a scholarship to the universities. 

When choir instructors Ms. Lamb and Mr. Baker were asked how they felt, they said, “We were thrilled that we had 5 of our students chosen. We really pushed them to audition because it’s so worthwhile. How often will they get the chance to do something like this and work with famous opera singers? We are very excited for this program and the opportunities it’s going to give our students.” 

The students have been given a chance to enhance their training and to be exposed to professionals and higher level singers. The opportunity will prove to be very helpful and give the students hands-on experience, future contacts, and potential funding for the future.