Winners and soloists announced

Each year, the Heritage Choir awards scholarships to exceptional high school seniors who have shown talent, dedication, and passion in the vocal arts. The audition process includes letters of recommendation, a transcript of grades, and an in-person vocal performance. We are excited to announce this year’s scholarship winners and guest soloists at our Easter concert.

Lydia Ricks, $1000 scholarship one of this year’s four recipients awarded by the So. Utah Heritage Choir, has performed for four seasons at Tuacahn Center for the Arts, starring in “Annie” (title role) and “Matilda” (title role). A senior at Crimson Cliffs High School where she holds a 3.9 GPA, Lydia finds time to mentor young performers as a vocal teacher. This summer, she will serve in the Nauvoo Performing Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Melanie Peterson, a senior at Utah Arts Academy, is a $1000 scholarship recipient. At UAA, she excels in an environment which encourages both personal and artistic growth.Melanie’s passion for the arts was sparked by her Mexican heritage, where music, traditions, and storytelling nurtured her creativity. At age 18, this Miss Ivins 2024, has already earned multiple accolades in national competitions and performances in school, while maintaining a 3.9 GPA.

Lily Butler, a senior at Desert Hills High School and a $500 scholarship recipient, was an understudy in the lead role of Mabel in the St.George Musical Theater production of “Pirates of Penzance.” She received a perfect score twice in both regional and state solo and ensemble competitions.She was a soloist for Utah All-State Choir and St. George Regional Honor Choir. Lily has performed in musical theater workshops in New York City and competed at Musical Theater Competition of America (MTCA) in Los Angeles, where her team won first place.

Sarah Osness, a senior at Dixie High School, is awarded a $500 scholarship. With 20 musical theater productions to her credit, Sarah has achieved national recognition, including second place in the high school musical theater division of a competition in Washington, D.C. She was also an All-State Singer and a state finalist in the Utah High School Musical Theater Awards.