NSU student to perform at Carnegie Hall

(Tahlequah, Okla.)-- Northeastern State University houses some amazing musical talent and this was most recently proven in the case of flutist Sarah Thompson.

Thompson, a junior at NSU, has been perfecting her skills on the flute for 12 years. She is a member of the 145th Army band and also performs in the local Quahlity Vibes group. With graduation not too far away, Thompson wanted to make last semester special by going outside of her comfort zone.

I decided that last semester was the one for music competitions and I was sold when I heard that I could win the chance to go to Carnegie Hall, Thompson said.

Although she was hesitant, Thompson submitted a recording of herself performing ImagebyEugne Bozzaas her audition for the 2015 American Protg International Woodwinds and Brass Competition.

Her dedication and hard work paid off. Thompson won first place in the Advanced Category of College Students and Professionals.

I never imagined that I could win something so prestigious on my first try, she said, describing the anticipation of playing at Carnegie Hall as living her dreams.

Dr. Kristyn Son, adjunct flute professor at NSU, was proud of Thompsons success, but not the least bit surprised.

Only the performers with true confidence can own the piece and bring convincing performances to an audience, which Sarah did impeccably for the competition. I cannot be more proud of her as her flute professor.

The American Protg competition was open to participants from around the world and had categories that included young musicians beginning at the age of five and talent levels all the way to college students and professionals.

Organizers of the competition work in tandem with senior managers and casting producers from Tremendous! Entertainment, NBCs TheTonightShow Starring Jimmy Fallon and Today Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show and more to host the event.

Among the other winners, Thompson will take the stage onSunday, May 1, 2016at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Published: 2016-01-07 08:52:44.387000