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The National Piano Auditions, sponsored by The National Guild of Piano Teachers, were held recently at Second Street Presbyterian Church in Albemarle.

Pamela Mullens was the adjudicator. She began piano lessons at age 6. She began playing for church at an early age. Mullens studied at Winthrop University and received a Master of Music Education degree with a concentration in piano.

She enjoys teaching because of the music and the richness of relationships with students. Mullens is also involved in the music ministry at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews and is is the pianist and harpsichordist for the church.

Piano teacher Alma Rae Tucciarone (chairperson), Joyce Harwood and Miena Powell had students play in the auditions.

Students of Tucciarone are: National – Bryson Barbee, Eden Klutzz, Elijah Ingle; State – Luke Jacobi; District -Uriah Ines, V Broadway; Hobbyist – Sydney McRae.

Students of Harwood are: National – Andrew Harwood, Evan Harwood, Lily Harwood, Amelia Holt, Spencer Lambert, Nate Ludeking, Polly Nantz, Seth Richards, Wesley Riodgers, Jair Sanchez, Melani Sanchez; District – Collyns Almond, Carys Conte, Ada Morgan, Mayeri Sanchez; Hobbyist – Ailanne Hernandez.

Students of Powell are: Paderewski Gold Medal – Elijah Powell; National – Elijah Powell, Preston Powell, Madison MacTaggart, Matthew MacTaggart.