RYAN MILSTEAD WINS MET DISTRICT COMPETITION

Ryan Milstead, a student of Professor Ricardo Herrera, was one of seven winners in the Central Illinois District competition of the Metropolitan Opera, which took place on Saturday, October 24 in the Foellinger Great Hall at Krannert Center. Judges were Cynthia Clarey, Ben Terry Lusk, and Timothy Noble.

Ryan sang "Avant de quitter ces lieux" from Faust by Gounod and "Hai gia vinta la causa!" from Le Nozze di Figaro by Mozart. There were 25 competitors, and seven advanced to the Regional Round, which will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2009 at 2:00pm at the Music Institute of Chicago at 1490 Chicago Avenue in Evanston.

Ryan is working on his M.M. in Vocal Performance. He is cast as Figaro in the UIUC's upcoming production of Le Nozze di Figaro. He is also in Professor Herrera's Opera Studio class, singing the title role in several scenes from Don Giovanni.

Another UIUC voice major, Diane Henning, who studies with Professor Dawn Harris, received an Encouragement Award from the judges.

Congratulations to both Ryan and Diane, and Professors Herrera and Harris. Best of luck in Chicago next Sunday, Ryan!!