Kari Rutherford’s singing voice can now literally be described as rosy.
Rutherford is the latest recipient of the Brandon Festival of the Arts Rose Bowl, the top honour to be bestowed at the festival for vocal performance. Her performance through a series of recitals and judgments elevated her against her peers.
“I felt great! I had performed really well that evening and it was very exciting to be chosen for the award,” she said.
In order to win the event, Rutherford, who is currently studying music at Brandon University, had to win in different categories throughout the week before a final recital. Each performer was assigned marks by adjudicator Michele Capalbo, a talented soprano and vocal instructor.
“You had to win several categories throughout the festival week with a mark of 85 or higher – distinction – to be considered for trophy night where you can compete for the Rose Bowl,” she said.
“We are marked out of 100, with certain grade classes determining what qualifies you to continue forward. Nothing is predetermined, so I tried to incorporate as many of the criticisms I received from the adjudication into my practice. I wanted to show that I can take direction and evolve in a short period of time.”
Rutherford took the adjudicators’ advice to the final performance. At the end, Rutherford came out on top of all performers, receiving the floral award.
“I felt that her adjudication added refinement to what I performed that night, and I felt really invested in the character of the aria I performed. I felt that I really sold the story and that I was singing well,” said Rutherford. “That feeling was solidified by the applause that followed. It was amazing to feel that the audience had connected with the piece and had enjoyed the experience.”
The next step for Rutherford is a special showcase performance, featuring her and all the other category winners. She hopes to receive provincial recommendations from her upcoming workshops.
