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Printer-Friendly ModeIdol competition held
April 17, 2006 —
The Saginaw Valley Choral Society hosted SVSU Idol, a campus version of the popular FOX show American Idol, where students had the opportunity to show off their vocal skills in front of judges Thursday in the Multi-purpose Room.
While the stage was certainly smaller than the one that Chris Daughtry and the other American Idol hopefuls grace every Tuesday night in Los Angeles, the talent was arguably of equal proportions.
Choral Society Vice President Tami Snyder said that the contest, while clearly not as big as the real thing, is still important.
"It's a great way for people to get their voice out there and be heard," she said.
Some contestants admitted to having never sang solo in front of others before, and this provided that opportunity.
This is the first such competition at SVSU, and anyone willing to perform was welcome. Entrants could sing whatever they wished, provided they sang it a cappella.
Judging the competition were Eric Skibbe, president of the Choral Society; Cheryl Cheger-Timm, department pianist and accompanist for the choir; and Dr. Robert Drew, communications professor and author of a book on karaoke. Drew said he was likely chosen as a judge because of his "experience as a karaoke scholar." He also admitted to watching American Idol rarely.
"My problem with American Idol is that it is too competitive and mean-spirited," he said. "I think I bring levity and a positive attitude to the judge panel, because this is about having fun."
The rest of the judges followed suit, offering positive feedback to contestants following performances. After senior Eric Rauschert's take on "Angels Among Us," Cheger-Timm commented, "I'm not sure I see angels among us just yet, but they are on their way."
Drew was also happy with song selections. After Sarah Chaltrow's performance of "Me and Bobby McGee," he commented, "It's a pleasure for me to see the young people are still singing that song."
At the end of the night, first place went to freshman Ricco Ruiz, who wowed the judges with "My Last Song," an original composition. Second place went to Program Board president Ashley Talley for her rendition of CeCe Winans' "Alabaster Box." Mark Sprang took third place with "Tainted Love."
SVSU Idol was also a fund-raiser. There was a $5 entry fee, as the purpose for the event was to help raise money to support a trip to Japan, where the SVSU choir will perform next spring.