Three Truman Vocal Music Students Among State’s Best

Missouri’s best high school musicians, including three from Truman High School, were afforded a unique opportunity during the Missouri Music Educators Conference. Truman students Abigale Becker, Rosie Smith and Val Mathenia were part a select group of Missouri students chosen to work with a world-renowned conductor and then present a concert for the state’s music educators. More than 200 students auditioned and Becker, Smith and Mathenia each earned one of just 32 spots in the choir.

“It was a rigorous process,” said Kim Evans, Truman High School vocal music director. “In order to make the state choir, students needed a near-perfect audition. They had to sing their solos beautifully and sight-read perfectly because just one point can make or break a student.”

Before the January 31 concert, Becker, Smith and Mathenia attended multiple rehearsals to learn the all-state literature and Evans said all three were extremely excited for the opportunity to represent themselves, Truman High School and the Independence School District.

“We could not be more proud of these students,” she said. “Their achievement represents not only hours of dedication on their part, but on the part of teachers and parents too and it demonstrates we can hold our own against surrounding districts.”

The four-day conference was held at the Tan-Tar-A Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks.