Rhoades honored as outstanding performer in UIL contest

Emily Rhoades

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Emily Rhoades, a voice student in the Music Preparatory Division of the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music, was recognized as an outstanding performer at the 2013 Texas State Solo-Ensemble Vocal Solo Contest.

Of the approximately 95,000 students participating in the regional University Interscholastic League music contests and the 24,000 musicians who performed at TSSEC, only 305 students earned the distinguished honor of being recognized as an outstanding performer, according to Richard Floyd, UIL state director of music.

"Awards of this nature do not come easily and reflect the efforts of many individuals," Floyd wrote in his letter of congratulations to Rhoades. "Your parents, school and teachers are to be commended for their contribution to your success. I encourage you to share this honor with them.

"At the same time, remember that you alone through your own talent, dedication and hard work made this accomplishment a reality," he wrote.

Rhoades, 17, who is the daughter of Stephen and Amy Rhoades, is a student at Lufkin High School. Her voice teacher is Deborah Dalton, associate professor of voice and opera at SFA.