ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University has announced soprano Ember Geist and clarinetist Alexander Trujillo as winners of the 2025-26 Concerto-Aria Competition, following an evening of outstanding performances by student musicians. 

Geist, a member of the class of 2027 from Roscoe, South Dakota, is a student of Dr. Darci Bultema. She earned top honors with her performance of “Il bacio” by Luigi Adritti. 

Trujillo, a member of the class of 2028 from Rapid City, South Dakota, studies clarinet with Dr. Audrey Miller. He was recognized for his performance of “Pink Ribbon for Susan” by composer Christopher Stanichar. 

Trumpeter Axton Johnson received honorable mention in this year’s competition. 

Event organizers noted that the outside panel of judges was highly impressed with the quality of Northern State University student performances and faced a difficult decision in selecting winners from a particularly strong pool of candidates. As expressed by the judges and organizers, all participating students should feel proud of their performances, and many kudos were extended to both students and faculty for the high level of preparation and artistry displayed at the contest performance. 

This year’s judges were Dr. Efraín Amaya of Minot State University and Dr. Anne Nash of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. 

As winners of the Concerto-Aria Competition, Geist and Trujillo will appear as soloists with the Aberdeen University/Civic Symphony on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in Jewett Auditorium on the Northern State University campus. 

For more information, contact the School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.