In its second year, the Solo & Ensemble Festival from Arts Ed NJ continues to give students from New Jersey a chance to showcase their musical talents, especially during the pandemic. Trinity Hall senior Lydia Lu entered the regional Solo & Ensemble Winter Festival as a solo vocalist and received a Gold rating, allowing her to move on to the state level of the competition.
“I learned about the Arts Ed NJ Festival last year through [music teacher] Mr. Bogdan and jumped at the opportunity to perform. Opera is my passion but, unfortunately, there are not many local classical singing competitions,” Lydia explained.
The Arts Ed NJ launched their Solo & Ensemble Festival last year to appreciate the musical talents and dedication of students throughout the state. The competition is open to students in New Jersey at public or private middle and high schools. As a soloist or an ensemble, participants are required to submit a video of themselves performing a song vocally or with instruments. The videos are then reviewed and rated by a panel of judges.
“This year, I decided to sing ‘O Mio Babbino Caro.’ Although it's a very well-known piece, it allows for so much variety and unique stylistic choices by the singer. I enjoyed being able to embody a very dramatic, scheming character, which is different from my usual personality.” Lydia received a Gold rating for her performance, allowing her to move on to the state level of the competition. Lydia will be asked to submit another vocal performance for the state competition where she will be competing against students who also received high scores in the regional competitions.
“I am beyond grateful to have placed Gold this year and move on to the state level of the competition. It is a privilege to represent Trinity Hall and promote the arts in the local community,” expressed Lydia.
The whole Trinity Hall community will be cheering Lydia on as she moves on to the next level. Congratulations Lydia on this well-deserved accomplishment!