This past Saturday, May 3rd, five Weiser vocal students traveled to Pocatello to compete in the highly selective Idaho Music Education Association (IMEA) State Solo Competition—and made history in the process.
For the first time since 2017, when Aaron Real placed 1st in the state as a tenor, Weiser brought home not one, but two first-place awards. Senior Olivia Sanders was named the 1st Place Soprano in the State of Idaho, and fellow senior Riggin Roberts earned 1st Place Tenor, placing him at the very top among male voices statewide. Adding to the town’s pride, Ashlynn Strasser placed 4th in the Mezzo-Soprano division, with Hali Blanchard placing 13th statewide, and Etienne Pomo earning 14th in the Baritone division.
All five competitors represented Weiser with poise, passion, and tremendous musical skill in a field of the state’s finest high school vocalists. The competition took place at Idaho State University and brought together the most elite district finalists from across Idaho.
Each student brought something unique and remarkable to the stage:
Olivia Sanders, performing the virtuosic La Zingara by Donizetti, stunned the judges with the grace and ease of her coloratura passages. This milestone marks the culmination of a lifelong dream; Olivia has worked toward this goal since joining the VAS Studio just before second grade. Reflecting on the moment, she said, “It doesn’t feel real. I can’t believe I did it!” Olivia has competed all four years of her high school career! An impressive achievement+
Riggin Roberts, a dedicated vocal student of three years. Performing Go, Lovely Rose, Riggin impressed the judges with his lovely tone and elegant phrasing, earning him the title of 1st Place Tenor in the State of Idaho. “I could not be more pleased with the outcome,” he shared after the awards ceremony.
Ashlynn Strasser delivered a breathtaking performance of Silent Noon, placing her in the top five of the Mezzo-Soprano division. Judges praised her for her poetic rendering of the piece, noting the emotional sensitivity and natural musicality she brought to every phrase. Reflecting on the experience, Ashlynn shared, “I cannot believe how far I have come. I could never have imagined this!” This marks her second successful appearance at State; a fitting recognition for her dedication and growth.
Hali Blanchard, who placed 13th in the entire state, was recognized for the expressive artistry she brought to Everywhere I Look by Molly Carew. A dynamic performer on and off stage, Hali has been a part of the Victoria Arriero Studio since second grade. This year, she also achieved one of her longtime goals; starring as Milly, the lead role in Weiser High School’s production of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Hali said she is proud of her progress and thrilled for her classmates. “I’m so happy with how much I’ve grown, and I’m excited to see where music takes me,” she shared.
Etienne Pomo, who took on the challenge of preparing I Wonder as I Wander in only a few weeks, all while leading as Adam in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, delivered a performance marked by his deep, rich tone and heartfelt interpretation. He placed 14th statewide, an exceptional achievement for his first year competing.
The students were honored at a formal awards ceremony in Pocatello following the competition. Their accompanist, Lara Tolman, once again supported all five vocalists with precision and musicality, helping bring their performances to life.
All five students are seniors and members of the Victoria Arriero Studio (VAS). Their success at State not only highlights their individual talents but reflects the strength of the Weiser community’s support for the arts.
Studio director Victoria Arriero reflected on the moment:
“I am incredibly proud of each one of these students. Watching them grow…through every high and low that comes with learning and mastering their craft…has been nothing short of a privilege. To see them go from sweet, eager children with a love for music to young adults performing at this level, with so much heart and passion, reminds me exactly why I do what I do. Their journey has been inspiring.”
Congratulations to these exceptional young artists for their historic achievements and for representing Weiser with such excellence, dedication, and heart.
