Four Hartnell College music students, all recipients of the Killian Music Scholarship, recently represented the college at the prestigious Classical Singer Convention and Competition, a national event held in Boston that attracts talented young vocalists from across the United States.
Junelle Aubrey Geli from Soledad, and Tiana Magdaleno, Tahlia Magdaleno, and Diego Ramirez from Salinas, all competed in the Collegiate Division in both Classical and Musical Theatre categories. The students are members of Hartnell College's Music Department and study privately with renowned voice teacher Paula Baack, who provides instruction through the Killian Music Scholarship program.
Among the students' accomplishments, two advanced to the semifinal round of the national competition—Tiana Magdaleno in the Classical category and Diego Ramirez in Musical Theatre—earning recognition among some of the country's most promising collegiate singers. Semifinals included the 10 ten singers in each category. In addition to the repertoire categories, students apply in one of two high school categories or the collegiate level.
Participation in the convention provided the students with valuable performance experience, opportunities to receive feedback from distinguished vocal professionals, and exposure to fellow singers from colleges and universities nationwide. After the students paid their own entry/audition fees, a generous, anonymous donor paid for the rest of their expenses, including hotel, airfare, and workshop fees associated with the event.
"We are incredibly proud of these students for representing Hartnell College on a national stage. Their dedication, artistry, and commitment to excellence reflect the strength of our music program and the opportunities made possible through the Killian Music Scholarship."
Sandy Rudo, Hartnell College Choral Director and Vocal Instructor
The Classical Singer Convention and Competition is one of the nation's leading events for emerging vocal artists, offering competitions, master classes, workshops, and networking opportunities for singers pursuing careers in classical and musical theatre performance. The 2026 Classical Singer Convention and Competition brought together more than 800 singers, educators, and industry professionals from across the United States. In addition to the competition, attendees participated in masterclasses, workshops, auditions, and networking opportunities designed to support the development of emerging vocal artists. More than 60 colleges, universities, conservatories, and professional arts organizations were represented, offering recruitment opportunities and educational resources through the convention's Expo and Recruiting Fair.
Participation in the Classical Singer Convention and Competition began with a competitive online screening process. Applicants were required to submit a recorded video performance in either (or both) the Classical or Musical Theatre category for evaluation by the competition's adjudicators. Following the review process, participants received professional feedback and notification regarding their acceptance to the national event held in Boston. All four Hartnell students were accepted in both the Classical and Music Theater categories.
The students receive weekly private voice instruction through the Killian Music Scholarship Program with nationally recognized voice teacher, Paula Baack, who is based in Colorado. Through regularly scheduled virtual lessons, students receive individualized training in vocal technique, musicianship, performance practice, and artistic development. While instruction takes place virtually, the format allows students to work consistently with a highly accomplished educator whose expertise and mentorship have played an important role in their musical growth. The weekly lessons provide students with personalized feedback and preparation for performances, auditions, and competitions at both the regional and national levels. Ms. Baack is an accomplished voice teacher whose students regularly achieve success in regional and national vocal competitions. She also maintains an active private studio, working with singers both in person and online.
Meet our music students
Diego Ramirez
Diego Ramirez is a tenor from Salinas, California, pursuing undergraduate studies in Music Education with an emphasis in Classical and Musical Theatre voice. As an active member of the Hartnell College Choir and Chamber Ensemble and a recipient of the Hartnell College Killian Music Scholarship, he is committed to continual growth as both a musician and educator. Driven by a passion for storytelling through music, Diego has worked diligently to develop his vocal artistry, musicianship, and performance skills, always striving to become the best artist and leader he can be. Through his studies and performance experiences, he hopes to inspire others through the transformative power of music.
Junelle Aubrey Geli
Junelle Aubrey Geli is a mezzo-soprano from Soledad, California and has loved singing since the age of 3. She began developing her musical skills through learning guitar and piano at the age of 11 and writing original music since age 14. Now at 22, Junelle is a proud member of the Hartnell College Choir, Chamber Singers, and Hartnell Jazz Band, a continuing scholar within the Killian Music Scholarship, and was one of the twelve recipients of the Boronda International Study Program for the Summer of 2025. Through the Killian Scholarship, she has grown immensely in several genres within these past 2 years of vocal training through private lessons. With a passion for storytelling and spreading love through music, Junelle is continuing her collegiate studies and artistic exploration towards a future in songwriting, music production, and music education.
Tahlia Magdaleno
Tahlia Magdaleno is a mezzo-soprano from Salinas, California known for her versatility across multiple vocal styles. She is a recipient of the Killian scholarship and the Boronda International Study Program for the Summer of 2025. She has been involved in coastal and national honor choirs (2019-2023) and has been a member of a live band since the age of 12. Tahlia has performed for audiences of hundreds, developing a confident stage presence and a strong connection with listeners. Though she currently teaches various instruments and voice with children, she plans to continue with music education and become a collegiate level instructor.
Tiana Magdaleno
Tiana Magdaleno is a mezzo-soprano from Salinas, California. She began singing and
playing piano in elementary school and has gravitated to music ever since. She’s also
been a member of a live band for 7 years and counting. A National ACDA Honor Choir
member
(2023), she studies at Hartnell College—singing in the choir and chamber ensemble
and playing trombone in jazz band—while teaching choir, piano, accordion, and ukulele
in local elementary schools. She is currently pursuing undergraduate studies in music
education with the goal of becoming a choir instructor. A Killian Scholarship recipient,
Tiana explores diverse musical styles and languages as she grows as a singer, musician,
and performer.