Sonoma Idol asks teens to reach for the stars

The finals of the Sonoma Idol North Bay Teen Competition will be held in March, but it’s never too early to get your act together. Just like an athlete trains to run a marathon, music teacher Jennifer Youngdahl explains, teen singers need to prepare themselves for a big performance.
The second annual competition is tuning up now with classes which include vocal coaching, improvisation and techniques to overcome shyness and stage fright.
Youngdahl produced last year’s event, which culminated with “American Idol-style” finals where six young singers performed live for a judges and an audience of 300-plus.
“Our mission is to inspire teens to reach for the stars,” she said. Prepare them, encourage them and present them in a professional setting reflective of their hard work. “Give kids that kind of environment, and you’ll be amazed at what happens.”
Contestants compete in two age groups – the junior division, ages 12 to 14, and the senior division, ages 15 to 18. The competition is open to residents in Sonoma, Napa and Marin counties.
The first place winners will win a recording session and demo with an award-winning film composer. Top performers will also make live appearances in the area. Danny Wirick, for example, the 2009 senior division winner, performed at this year’s Sonoma City Party.
Youngdahl, who moved back to Sonoma about a year ago, grew up amid musical influences in Pennsylvania. Her mother was a church singer; dad was a music teacher. She started singing in the church choir at age four. In college she studied acting, back when her pal Sandra Bullock was ‘Sandy,’ and took roles in musical revues.
The experience gave her a sense of scene, an understanding of performance beyond the song. It’s one of the elements she teaches would-be Idols. “We work on stage presence, and how to break the ice,” she said. “It’s all about getting the kids comfortable.”
The process includes many wonderful moments she said, as the children experience a confidence in self-expression. “The best part is when you see the light bulb go off. They’re growing and learning.”
“There’s an emotional commitment. The kids begin to trust themselves, and in me as a teacher. It’s a real honor.”
Classes have begun in various locations. All levels of singers are welcome. There is a fee to enter and for classes. A limited amount of partial scholarships are available. For information visit: sonomaidolnorthbay.com or call 707.938.7276.