Stillwater High School senior Joshua Hoyt has been awarded the Saratoga Voices Vocal Scholarship, First Place Award, after scoring highest among eight applicants whose performances were judged by music industry professionals.

Josh will receive $1,500 toward the cost of attending The Hartt School at the University of Hartford this fall.

“This is such a well-deserved honor for Josh!” Stillwater music teacher Kara Pitkin said. “He has worked so hard, and everyone in the music department is extremely proud of all his accomplishments! Congratulations to Josh and all the best for his musical theater future.”

To win the scholarship, Josh had to sing two pieces for two judges, who scored him on his performance. Scholarship applicants had to perform from memory and provide their own live accompanist. Josh performed “Simple Song” and “Maria” and was accompanied by Stillwater music teacher Rachael O’Neill.

“It was an honor to play for Josh and I am so proud of all his accomplishments. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” O’Neill said.

According to Saratoga Voices, “The scholarships are intended to facilitate the continued study of singing in undergraduate institutions. The winners will also have an opportunity to perform in a future Saratoga Voices concert.”

Saratoga Voices is a not-for-profit organization focused on the performance and support of the choral arts regionally and nationally.