Anderson One Names District's Best Singers

The Best Singer in the District competition came to Anderson School District One on March 28, 2013 at Powdersville High School. Talented students (148) from elementary, middle and high school levels auditioned earlier and 26 finalists were chosen to compete in the first annual Best Singer in the District contest. The panel of judges gave awards for a variety of genre: Rhythm and Blues, Country, Pop and Inspiration. Awards were also give to each division and one best overall title.  before a large, enthusiastic audience and panel of judges.

Jane Harrison, Anderson One coordinated the event along with Pitch Doctors. She said, “It was a great event for showcasing the musical talent of our students from all levels. Every singer did an outstanding job. I hope this event will be one we have each year. The parents and students shared the positives of providing this opportunity and how much their children learned from the experience.”

Winners of genre awards were:

Best Rhythm & Blues: Nia Anthony, Wren High School, for "This Time”

Best Country: Alyson Ballard, Powdersville Middle School, for "Enchanted"

Best Inspiration: Rory Lindsay, Powdersville Middle School, for original song "Jesus Gonna Be There for Me"

Best Pop: Sarah-Emilee Dunn, Wren Middle School, for "My Heart Will Go On"

Three division winners received trophies. Sarah-Emilee Dunn won in the elementary division, Breonna Talley won in the middle school division, and Griffin Binnicker won in the high school division.

The Best Singer in the District award went to Sarah-Emilee Dunn.  This student received a plaque and $500 and will compete in the statewide competition among participating districts on April 26 in Greenville. The three winners will be invited to attend the April School Board meeting for recognition.

The purpose of the Best Singer in the School District competition is to identify, encourage, motivate, promote, and reward vocal music development and excellence within South Carolina’s school districts while providing needed financial funds and support for the school district’s music departments.

Best Singer in the District was founded by Robert Hoefer, owner of Pitch Doctors and the South Carolina Institute for Vocal Training. Best Singer in the District is sponsored by Ingles and Pitch Doctors.