Vocal Performance Program Adds Two More Titles at MN NATS

Lucas Xiang ’25, who won the classical division last year, took the title in the musical theatre division, while Adelina Mukhametzhanova ’26 won the lower college classical music division. Adelina has now won three different divisions, a noteworthy feat as this year she competed against college students. SSM has claimed six state championships in the history of the program.

Additionally, Hannah Do ’27 shined in her first competition as she took home second place in the high school classical division. VPP alum Hannah Ray ’21 was the runner-up in the upper college classical division.

The Minnesota NATS is an annual event that features the top performers in the state. It is one of the most competitive fields on the competition circuit and is organized and judged by some of the most prominent vocal teachers in the Midwest.

SSM Vocal Performance Program Director Peter Schleif was pleased with the performance of his pupils. “In the VPP we pride ourselves on continuous and steady growth, and these singers have shown that their consistent hard work pays off. Doing well in competitions is simply a direct reflection of the work put in on a daily basis, and I could not be more proud of how far all of our singers have come. We are off to a great start,” proclaimed Schleif.

The group will now shift its focus to preparing to audition for the National NATS competition, with the regional championships taking place in January.