Kaia Owens, ‘23, one of Tampa Prep’s Vocal Arts Concentration students, recently won 2nd place in the Southeast Region NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) competition for vocal performance, qualifying for Nationals! She also won 1st place in the St. Petersburg Opera Guild’s High School Competition this semester and is currently performing in the Italian opera “Cavalleria Rusticana” at the Straz Center.
Owens started taking voice lessons as six years old, got involved with her school chorus and began to focus on classical training when she discovered her love of classical music and opera.
“I know that opera is what I want to focus on, for my future, so it’s been such a great experience to work with all these talented opera singers now, in the Straz show.”
Her love of music played heavily into her choice to attend Tampa Prep, when she was able to visit the campus and learn about the chorus and music program and meet with Tampa Prep’s Choral Director, Andrew Hoy.
“I just loved the environment, the culture and how the students and teachers both shared the same driven mindset. Everybody worked hard and loved what they did. And, I really love Mr. Hoy.”
Owens hones her craft by practicing every day, through voice lessons, performances and competitions, including the upcoming National round for the NATS competition, as well as the CS Music competition in Chicago.
Learn more about Tampa Prep’s Performing Arts here:
