Elisandro Reza a student at Eastern New Mexico University, is a familiar face in the Music Department while majoring in vocal performance. Reza was granted the opportunity to perform at the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), which was hosted at the Sam Houston State University in Huntsville TX, in November 2024. Reza was the first to make it to the finals in the last fifteen years. Originally founded in 1944, NATS includes performers from the states of New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma.

Reza had the opportunity to represent African American Art Song (Let the Wind Cry and How I Adore Thee By: Undine S. Moore) and Mexican Art song (Jurame By: Maria Grever). Both songs motivated Reza to be a better musician and person all together. They enjoyed performing music that is not often performed. Reza's friends, family, and professors also motivated them the most. In and out of the competition, Reza shows gratitude towards his colleagues and professors. They feel that if they're showing up with a smile on their face, which makes others feel gratitude as well.

"To me these experiences are not about the 'Competition'," they said. "It's about the gift you prepared to leave the audience with." Reza believes that artistry and music are the main gifts. They also feel that when they leave the competition it feels good to know that they left the audience happy, and Reza feels accomplished with themselves too. Reza encourages vocal performance majors to never give up and be humble. "Love yourself unconditionally and fall in love with the music," Reza said.

"This experience was truly like no other," Reza said. They enjoyed being able to make connections with students and teachers from different states. Not only did the connections make a significant difference, but the benefits of shaking hands, and being able to congratulate others on the accomplishments they made, helped Reza tremendously. The experience helped Reza get an idea for their future in the field. They also explained that hearing how diverse the repertoire, voices, and personalities were, was a transformation. After Reza competed and won the competition, they qualify to perform in the national competition against

students from all over the United States. Reza also holds the role of the position of the student president for NATS, representing the chapter, school, and organization.

Without the help of Reza's community, they would not be where they are today. "We are all supportive and want the best for each other," Reza said. "So having that type of community truly makes me feel special." Ms. Kayla Liechty and Dr. Stephanie Beinlich helped Reza every step of their journey. "Reza is very talented," Beinlich said. "But what makes them stand out the most is their passion and work ethic." Dr. Beinlich also mentioned how much Reza loves to deepen their education. Reza is determined to not let any circumstance get in the way of a successful life.

Reza expresses their tremendous gratitude towards both Ms. Liechty and Dr. Beinlich for helping Reza get to where they are today. They are also grateful for their grandma Norma Duran who gave the right amount of encouragement and always knew the right things to say. "Thank you, Grandma," Reza said.