Oxford - In keeping with the tradition of high numbers of recognitions, Miami University vocal students at all levels of study fared “extremely well” at the annual National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) vocal competition at Bowling Green State University on April 12, according to MU vocal professor Mari Opatz-Muni. Eighteen MU vocalists competed, with 11, or just under two-thirds of the students, received recognition. Two, Michael Pegher and Grace Kim, took first place in their divisions. All in all, there were two first place winners, five second place winners, two third place winners, and two fourth place winners.  Opatz-Muni and other MU voice faculty members Alison Acord, and Ben Smolder all had winners. “This really shows of the strength of our vocal department, both in faculty and students,” commented Opatz-Muni, who also mentioned that “our students were professional at all times and represented themselves and our department admirably.” The NATS Buckeye Chapter has such schools participating as the Cleveland Institute of Music, CCM, University of Dayton, Otterbein, Ohio Wesleyan University, and others. This year there were more than 200 students competing. The students were accompanied, “beautifully,” according to Opatz-Muni, by Brad Caldwell, Carol Walker, and Susan Schroer. The list: Michael Pegher - First place, Advanced College Men Grace Kim - First place, Senior College Women Mark Rysdon Second Place, Advanced College Men Sean Lair - Second Place, Junior College Men Sean Hurley - Second Place, Junior College Men Phillip Jennings - Second Place, Sophomore College Men Mark Aiken - Second Place, Freshman College Men Antonia Tamer - Third Place, Sophomore College Women Emily Moses - Third Place, Freshman College Women Steve Mullan - Fourth Place, Upper College Musical Theatre Bryn Vertesi - Fourth Place, Advanced College Women