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Asbury Music Students Win Kentucky NATS Awards
Homepage News November 02, 2026

Asbury University Music Students Earn Top Honors at State Vocal Competition

Three Asbury students earn top-three finishes at the Kentucky NATS auditions, showcasing musical excellence and faculty mentorship.

Asbury University Music students showcased their vocal talents at the annual Kentucky State National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) auditions, held at the University of Louisville in October 2026.

Six Asbury vocal students participated in the preliminary round of the statewide competition, which brings together talented singers from colleges and universities across Kentucky. Five Asbury students advanced to the semifinal round, and three earned placements in their respective classical vocal divisions.

I am incredibly proud of my students! It takes a lot of courage and hard work to perform in these competitions and they demonstrated outstanding talent and passion for their art."
Asbury University Marie-France Ducios headshot Dr. Marie-France Duclos Asbury University Associate Professor of Music

Asbury students received the following honors:

  • Daniel Jo ’30, Music major, earned second place in the Classical Freshman Division.
  • Erin Robinette ’29, Music major, earned second place in the Classical Sophomore Division.
  • Gentry Osbourn ’27, Music major, earned third place in the Classical Senior Division.

Asbury faculty members played an important role in supporting the students throughout the competition.

Dr. Mary Ann Wilder ’03 (Assistant Professor of Collaborative Piano) played with Robinette and Osbourn during the final recital. Wilder also coached Bramwell Carr, a piano student of Dr. Don Zent, who played with Jo during the competition.

The students’ achievements reflect the personalized instruction, musical training and mentorship that characterize Asbury University’s music program.

Through individualized instruction, performance opportunities and collaboration with experienced faculty, Asbury equips students to develop their artistic abilities while growing academically, personally and spiritually.

Participation in events such as the NATS auditions allows students to apply their classroom training, connect with fellow musicians and gain valuable performance experience.

Asbury University celebrates its students and faculty for their accomplishments and their continued commitment to musical excellence to the glory of God.

Learn more about Asbury University’s music programs at asbury.edu/music.


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