Four University of Wisconsin-River Falls choral ensembles and one university band have been selected as finalists for a prestigious national honor.
Four different choral groups led by UW-River Falls Director of Choral Activities Cera Babb, of Hudson, have been chosen as national finalists for The American Prize in Choral Performance. The four ensembles named as national finalists are the university’s Chamber Singers, Concert Choir, Tenor/Bass Ensemble, and the Treble Choir.
In addition, the University Band at UW-River Falls, led by Band Director Gary Bird, of Hudson, was recognized for its musicianship by being selected as a national finalist for the American Prize in Band/Wind Ensemble Performance.
The ensembles and band submitted recordings to The American Prize that were judged against other submittals from across the country. The American Prize calls itself “…the nation’s most comprehensive series of contests in the classical arts…designed to evaluate, recognize and reward the best performers, ensembles, composers, directors and administrators in the United States, based on submitted recordings.”
Babb and Bird said they’re honored by the recognition by The American Prize. The distinction reflects the talent of UW-River Falls music students and their dedication toward performing and creating high-quality music, they said.
“The UWRF choirs have been working diligently and I am thrilled they are being recognized for their music,” Babb said. “I look forward to seeing where their continued growth will take them in the coming years.”
Paul Budde, chair of the UWRF Music and Stage and Screen Arts Department, said the finalist recognition by The American Prize for the UW-River Falls music program is “a great honor” that reflects its high-caliber music instruction and performance.
“This speaks to the dedication and musicianship of our students, as well as the outstanding leadership of ensemble leaders Dr. Cera Babb (choir) and Dr. Gary Bird (band),” Budde said.
