HAYS, Kan. -- Dr. Joe Perniciaro, assistant professor of music at Fort Hays State University, received the 2010 Singing Award for his performance at the Kansas National Association of Teachers of Singing competition on Feb. 20 in Manhattan.

"This was my first time in the competition," Perniciaro said. "Competitors had to prepare a program of 14 selections based on various musical genres, styles and languages. From that, the judges randomly select up to 15 minutes of music."

Three judges critiqued performers based on musicianship, vocal technique, voice characteristics, artistry, diction and communication.

The award is given to "singers whose artistry indicates that they are ready for a professional career and to encourage them toward that goal with a cash prize and the opportunity for performance engagements."

The competition takes place every other year in conjunction with the NATS conferences. Preliminary competitions are held regionally while semifinals and finals take place at the NATS Conference.

Perniciaro was one of two competitors chosen to advance to the regional level.

"Next I will go to Hastings, Neb., and if I win there I will go on to the national semi-finals," Perniciaro said.

Hastings will serve as the site for regional competition on March 13. Salt Lake City, Utah, will host the national competition. Only one person will advance from the regional division.

Participation is limited to National Association of Teachers of Singing members and their students, with an age limit of 35.