South Dakota grad student hits a high note

A graduate student at the University of South Dakota (USD) recently wowed with her singing voice at a regional competition hosted by the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA).

Dana Carlson performed a 30-minute vocal presentation in front of a three-judge panel, earning second place in a contest against other students from South Dakota as well as some from North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Colorado, Nebraska and Kansas.

USD Prof. Tracelyn Gesteland, who mentors Carlson in voice studies, said she was thrilled by Carlson's performance.

" Dana is a very talented and extremely motivated young lady,” Gesteland said. "She is a major asset to our program and is completely deserving of this recognition."

Carlson would perform at the national competition later this year in Baltimore if the regional winner were unable to attend.