USD’s Trayden Goodman Awarded First-Place in Glenn Miller National Scholarship Competition
Goodman competed in the vocalist division, performing "O del mio amato ben" by Stefano Donaudy and "Bring Him Home" from Les Miserables. As first-place winner, Goodman received a $3,000 prize and the honor of performing in the Stage Show at the Glenn Miller Festival in Clarinda, Iowa, where he sang alongside some of the top young vocalists in the country.
“I selected pieces that let me show both my vocal technique and my ability to tell a story, something I’ve been focusing on a lot in my training,” said Goodman. “I wanted to show the judges that I can cross between classical and musical theatre worlds and still bring authenticity to both. I feel a strong sense of gratitude for my USD teachers, mentors and my family who have supported me every step of the way.”
That authenticity shines through in both his performances and his studies, as Goodman dedicated months of preparation for the competition alongside his mentor, Tracelyn Gesteland, DMA, professor of voice/opera and the Walter A. and Lucy Yoshioka Buhler Endowed Chair at USD.
"Trayden's winning performance is a testament to his hard work and passion for singing. I am thrilled to see his talent and artistry recognized on a national stage,” said Gesteland.
In the future, Goodman looks forward to continuing his studies and sharing his love of music with new audiences.
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