FHS senior Jeff Allison was awarded the first place, $3000 scholarship, at the Houston Grand Opera High School Voice Studio recital recently.
           This is a tremendous honor, according to FHS Choir Director Janwin Overstreet-Goode, and is the third consecutive year that one or more Friendswood students have received a scholarship from HGO.
           Eight seniors from the greater Houston area are selected each year to participate.  A scholarship recital is presented in May; each singer prepares four arias or art songs for the recital. 
           The student begins with the song of his or her choice; the judges select one other song for the student to perform from their prepared selections. 
           At the conclusion of the recital, three scholarship winners are selected.  The first place winner received a $3,000 scholarship; 2nd place received $2,000, and 3rd place received $1,000.
           This year-long scholarship program includes private weekly voice lessons, master classes, vocal coaching from Houston Grand Opera staff, and performance opportunities.
           In addition to vocal instruction, our studio members gain a “behind the scenes” look at a professional opera company by attending off- and on-stage rehearsals and “shadowing” production staff backstage during performances. 
           Participants receive assistance with applications and auditions for college programs.
           In addition to improving vocal skills, the program is designed to enhance self-esteem, find healthy means of expression, teach rigorous standards of achievement, and reward disciplined commitment.