Friendswood High School’s choir program is celebrating a major accomplishment after five students advanced in one of the most competitive vocal auditions in the state.
On Thursday, Dec. 4, 21 FHS choir members competed in the Texas All-State Choir Pre-Area Audition, the third round in a rigorous selection process that began in September. Each section included 15 of the region’s best singers, narrowed down from as many as 150 competitors earlier in the season. Only the top five singers in each voice part moved on to the final state-level audition.
Five Friendswood students earned advancing positions and will compete in January for a place in the Texas All-State Choir, the highest honor a high school vocalist can achieve in Texas. Advancing students include Hannah Setoudeh, who placed 3rd in the Soprano 1 section; Roxie Harris, who placed 1st in Soprano 2; Cassidy Zavala, who earned 2nd in Alto 1; Samuel Davies, who placed 4th in Tenor 2; and Elijah Meaux, who secured 4th in Bass 2.
Several other singers earned alternate status and may still be called to compete at Area if an opening becomes available. Alternates include Beth Seifert, Mahrosh Saqib, Sherry Linklater, Maggie Searfoorce, Alec Moreno, Carter Payne, and Beckett Steele.
Choir directors Mike Tyer and Melissa Smith credited not only the dedication of their current voice faculty but also the long-term support provided by music educators throughout Friendswood ISD, who build a strong musical foundation from elementary through high school.
The Area round in January will determine which of the state’s top vocalists earn a coveted spot in the prestigious Texas All-State Choir, which performs annually at the Texas Music Educators Association convention.
Friendswood ISD students, staff, and families are encouraged to congratulate these talented musicians as they prepare for the final step in their journey to elite statewide recognition.
