West Virginia University today (Feb. 4) launched a statewide musical talent competition in an effort to promote the arts in the Mountain State.

Talent West Virginia, sponsored by WVU Medicine and WVU Health Systems, is open to West Virginia residents and college students attending a West Virginia institution. The competition has two categories - professional, for competitors 18 and up, and junior, for competitors 14 - 17. 

“The American Viola” is a collection of music from the late nineteenth century to today that encapsulates flowing lyricism to express the viola’s rich vocal character.

“As a performer and teacher, I am always interested in music that is beautiful and expressive, historically interesting, and that might benefit my students,” Houde said. “When the opportunity came to record a solo album, I collaborated with one of the most well-known viola repertoire researchers in the world, Rice University librarian David Bynog, and we found music that fit these criteria.” 

Degree Received: Bachelor of Music in Music Education