July 29th, 2011
High school vocalists honored at UT opera program

Bowers

STAFF REPORT

San Marcos High School vocalists Sam Heaton and Abby Bowers brought home honors from the University of Texas Butler School of Music’s Young Artist Opera program they attended this summer in Austin.

The five-week program met each Monday with the goal of preparing young singers for voice auditions, admission and integration into the nationally recognized music program.

Heaton was named Best Male Singer, and was one of three chosen from the camp to perform songs at the Opera Scenes Concert. Heaton sang “Vergin, Tutto Amor” by Francesco Durante. Bowers was one of three campers who were recognized as an Up-and-Coming Young Artist,  a designation given to younger students who display potential.

Heaton

Also representing San Marcos High School at the opera camp were Mercedes Gonzales and Isabel White, both entering high school as sophomores this year. The program typically only admits high school and juniors but Gonzales and White were accepted after being highly recommended by their voice teachers at Texas State University, said the high school’s choral director, Helen Miers.