Localizing America's biggest talent show

WILL SMARCZ
Special to The Leader

For those brave souls who can get past the fear of singing in front of a live audience, "American Idol" is perfect for them.

The talent contest has invaded over 100 million homes since its introduction to the United States in 2002.

On Nov. 13, an audience full of peers will decide the next Fredonia Idol, based on the television show. Each finalist will be judged on one song.

Started four years ago by former student Jessica Bain and passed along through Spectrum, an organization responsible for coordinating entertainment events and shows, Fredonia Idol runs similar to "American Idol."

Contestants first sing for a panel of judges before they are able to advance to the peer judging portion of the competition. The event culminates in the Williams Center and the winner is determined by votes from the audience.

Participants in the Fredonia contest are influenced to participate in many different ways. Music professor and first round judge Linda Phillips said, "I was influenced to participate in the event by Jessica Bain right when it began."

Every contestant has his or her own story. From freshman communication major Phil Ginely who simply showed up on a whim to senior music business major Melissa Manfredo who sings in Fredonia Idol because auditions for "American Idol" are during school, each story adds emotion to their performances.

Freshmen English education major Karolyn Laurenzi said, "I've always loved to sing and my father always wanted to sing."

Senior music business major and winner of the first Fredonia Idol, Eddie Fourcell, was present meeting the new contestants. Fourcell acted as Master of Ceremonies for the first round of judging, introducing contestants to the judges.

One of the defining aspects of the Fredonia Idol program is the fact that everyone can participate even if they do not compete.

"The event usually has an exceptional turnout; the judges give them [the finalists] scores and everyone in the audience votes as well; this determines the winner. It's a lot of fun for everyone involved." said senior music business major and Spectrum e-board member Kaleena Goldsworthy.

The finalists for the event consist of Manfredo, Colin Pazik, Natalie Vavrasek, Laura Weinman, Ariel Mombrea, Shauna Condon, Kyle Blount, Andre Salter, Justin Moore, Mike Raisch, and Caitlin Kopher.

The finals will be taking place at 7 p.m. on Nov. 13th in the Multipurpose Room.