Soprano Kiera Duffy, who earned a bachelor’s degree from Westminster in 2001 and a Master degree in 2003, was one of four winners of the Marian Anderson Prize for Emerging Classical Artists at the recent awards competition in Philadelphia.  In addition, sopranos Amanda Moody, who earned bachelor’s and Master degrees from Westminster in 2002 and 2004, respectively; and Elisa Vilbergsdottir, a current student, received Encouragement Awards.  All three were honored at an awards ceremony and prize recital at the Academy of Vocal Arts on November 19.  Kiera and Elisa also performed in the recital.

The Marian Anderson Prize for Emerging Classical Artists was created to support significantly talented, classically trained singers who are beginning their professional careers.  It was inspired by the example of the many individuals who provided vital assistance to contralto Marian Anderson as she began her own artistic journey.  Contestants were singers 35 and under who were either born in, reside in or are currently enrolled as students in Pennsylvania, New Jersey or Delaware.