Junior vocalist Christa Navy performed in front of a packed the Jomie Jazz Forum Saturday night for her junior recital.

There was not a seat left in the room Saturday evening when junior vocal performance and music education major, Christa Navy took the stage.

Navy awed the crowd with her impressive soprano vibrato and comedic touches that brought the music to life.

As a member of the Opera Workshop, Navy is well versed in having an emotional connection with the music and relating that to the audience.

“All of the songs are something I’ve connected with, whether it be because of the music or because of the translations of the words,” Navy said. “None of these songs I’m not connected to, I think that’s really important.”

Navy is also a member of the Marshall University Chamber Choir, A Capella group The Huntingtones and studies voice under Dr. Larry Stickler.

“I’ve pretty much been preparing for this recital with Dr. Stickler for three years, so the whole time I’ve been in college,” Navy said.

Navy showcased her extensive range with works by Handel, Schubert and her favorite piece from the opera “La Bohéme.”

“The aria ‘Quando men vo’ from ‘La Bohéme’ I’ve kind of nurtured and it has kind of become my baby the past couple years,” Navy said.

During her three years at Marshall Navy has also performed with the jazz band and has performed for the marching band as a soloist, with whom she performed at football games including the bowl game.

The success of Saturday’s junior recital continued into Sunday when Navy auditioned for and won the Concert of Soloists Competition.

As one of three winners, Navy has been invited to sing with the Marshall University Symphony Orchestra on April 27 at 7:30 in Smith Recital Hall.

Leah Cook can be contacted at [email protected].