National anthem competition whittled to five finalists
The five finalists have been named in CHSAA’s national anthem singing competition. Now, it’s up to you to decide who will sing prior to the Class 4A and 5A football championship games at Sports Authority Field at Mile High.
The finalists were selected by CHSAA staff after reviewing each submission entered into the contest. It wasn’t easy to narrow down to five — we continue to be astounded by the talent in our schools — but we did.
As stated in the official contest rules, the next step in the process is an online vote, which will begin on Tuesday morning. Voting will end on Nov. 26, and the winner will be announced on Nov. 27. (Update: Vote here.)
Our finalists, listed in alphabetical order:
Qirsten Carter, a Sand Creek junior. “I thoroughly enjoy singing and it would be an honor to be able to share my talent and honor my country in the midst of a larger audience,” Carter says. “It is my dream to become a professional recording artist and I feel that this would be a great platform for me to showcase my talent and represent my school in a positive manner.”
Here is Qirsten’s submission:
Claire Erickson from Buena Vista. “The National Anthem honors our country in the most beautiful form of art: song,” she says. “I not only have a passion for music, but I love my country. It would be an honor to express my devotion to the USA in front of many others who share the same love for our country that I do.”
Here is Claire’s submission:
Kylie Griggs, Sarah Hoogerwerf, Brenna Sauer and Alex Van Velkinburgh from St. Mary’s Academy. Says the group: “St. Mary’s Academy has a long held tradition of excellent choral music.”
Their submission:
Monica Valdez, a senior at Pueblo County. “I have been singing since I was 5 years old,” she says. “I would be ecstatic if I were given the opportunity to represent Southern Colorado, and my small hometown of Pueblo, in the Mile High City.”
Here is Monica’s submission:
Kate Yeash from Monarch. “Performing is a part of my life, as is singing,” she says. “I’ve performed the National Anthem at many different events and I’ve had so much fun every time.”
Here is Kate’s submission:
