FSU student competes in the NATS Tournament
Psychology Major and Music Minor at Fairmont State University, Anthony Hardy (junior) competed in the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Chapter Tournament on November 16th in Slippery Rock, PA. His rendition of You’ll Be Back from the Broadway musical Hamilton earned him first place in the competition and a spot for the NATS Eastern Panhandle Regional Championship on March 20-22, 2020.
How long have you been involved in music?
For a very long time. I’ve been singing since I was super young. I started choir in the fourth grade which is where I really started learning about it.
What does choir and singing mean to you?
It means so much. I’ve always wanted to be a performer. I get on stage any time that I can. It calms me down when things are bad and I try to help others with it, as well. I write, sign, compose just about everything I can to express myself. So much emotion can be shown through music and I love that.
What goals do you have with singing?
I would love to be a professional singer. I actually tried for American Idol last year. I didn’t go anywhere with it, but I tried.
Was this your first time auditioning for NATS?
This was my first time even hearing of it.
How did you hear about NATS?
Spears invited me along. Usually it’s only for music majors, but he said it could be beneficial for me, so I went.
Do you have any comment regarding your competition?
They were all fantastic and I was happy to have such talented competition.
What was your reaction to placing first?
I was surprised I even made it to the finals, yet alone winning.
What does winning first place mean for your future in NATS?
This was the NATS Chapter Tournament, which was West Virginia, Eastern Ohio, and Western Pennsylvania. Now I can advance to the Eastern Panhandle Regionals which is West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, part of Quebec, and New Jersey.
What preparations will you be making for the next competition?
I have to have four new songs for it, so I need a couple new pieces for my repertoire. I already have You’ll Be Back down, as well as What Do I Need With Love? from the musical Thoroughly Modern Millie.
Why not a major in music or music education?
I wanted to when I first came here, but I didn’t feel it was necessary. I didn’t particularly want to teach and I wasn’t sure if going to a smaller school for performing would be the best. Now I’ve debated changing to a double major, but music majors have to devote so much time that I don’t necessarily have.
