Up-and-coming BFA Musical Theatre major at UC College-Conservatory of Music, Nick Gundrum, is making waves as a semifinalist in the American Pops Orchestra's NextGen Collegiate Vocal Competition. The stakes are high with a spot in the finals and the opportunity to perform at New York City's Lincoln Center on the line. Gundrum, along with other semifinalists, is slated to showcase vocal prowess in genres spanning popular song, musical theatre, and jazz. Public participation factors into the competition, as viewers can throw their support behind their favorite contenders during the live-streamed event on December 7, by casting their votes through the APO's website, according to UC News.
While the anticipation is palpable, viewers tuning in from their homes can cast votes for 10 finalists who will surge forward to the finale. "The competition has been a great opportunity so far," Gundrum told the University of Cincinnati, excited about the upcoming semi-finals, which are being live-streamed. "Anyone can watch the livestream and submit their votes! I believe it costs $5 to vote", adding that the audience's voice holds weight as the fourth vote in the panel, alongside the three judges.
The American Pops Orchestra's NextGen Collegiate Vocal Competition is a beacon for young talent, designed to identify promising vocalists who can potentially join the ranks of professional performance circles. Finalists will not only vie for cash prizes but also for the chance to display their talents with the APO in their season concerts. Gundrum's preparation for this fierce contest has been nurtured by his rigorous training at CCM, which has included invaluable classes in acting and singing, culminating in enhanced abilities that have fueled his confidence to participate in these high-level competitions.
Gundrum's lead-up to Sunday's semifinal is nothing short of a busy schedule, having performed in not one, but two CCM productions. To name a few, the singer flexed his acting muscles in the CCM Musical Theatre Series' "The World Goes 'Round," presented on December 4-6, and swung into the role of Anthony in "Sweeney Todd," a cooperative venture between musical theatre and the opera program, staged back in April. Reflecting on his time at CCM, Gundrum recalled, "My favorite role that I've played at CCM so far has been The Wreck in Wonderful Town," recounting the moments to the University of Cincinnati with a sense of nostalgia and delight.
Gearing up for the competition, Gundrum is not just content to rest on his laurels; his enthusiasm for continued growth shines through. According to his conversation with the University of Cincinnati, one of his favorite undertakings has been his senior acting class, where the thrill of improvisation leads to the creation of short plays and musicals. "It is so much fun to improvise with my classmates," he expressed. With his talent and passion, Gundrum is evidently prepared to bring his A-game to the semi-finals, embracing the opportunity to captivate a broader audience.
