Quetzala Carson, 17, is a young, confident activist-in-the-making who uses her guitar, powerful singing voice and quick wit to rally the troops. And it’s no surprise this likeable young woman was one of two grand prize winners at St. Albert Idol, held last weekend in conjunction with St. Albert Chamber of Commerce’s annual spring trade show.
The Grade 12 Ă©cole Secondaire St. Marguerite d’Youville student loves the little things in life and her songs deal with everyday issues. The song that swept her to the top of the pack as Junior St. Albert Idol was I Do, an original number inspired by her parents’ strong and healthy marriage.
“I was really excited. I didn’t know if an original song would win. There’s no way to measure it up,” said Carson.
However, after the fan vote cast her doubts aside, she received a $250 recording package from V-Studios, a website and $50 in iTunes cards. But the blushing performer only gushed over a bouquet of flowers. “I do so love getting flowers.”
In the Senior St. Albert Idol category, Stephen Lecky was a tough customer to beat. Lecky has displayed his talent as a Top 100 Canadian Idol contender who also won three prizes at 2010 Futures Fest.
Ironically, Lecky “decided at the last minute to sing. It was a good reason to perform.” And he outlasted other performers taking home a $500 recording package as well as assorted goods and services.
There were more than 100 competitors this year from every high school and junior high throughout the city. “We had a phenomenal showing. There was not only so much talent, but so much talent we had never seen before,” said organizer Martha Livingstone.
She cited Andrew Salcedo and Candy Papestesis as two unknowns that blew away the preliminary judges and skyrocketed to the finals. “Often at these events you see the same names showing up. But we were seeing different people showcasing and that is really rewarding.”
Finalists in the St. Albert Idol Senior category are Amanda Robinson, Neil Lamouche, Sarah Marles, Nicole Hoffman and Marilyn Lamouche.
St. Albert Idol Junior finalists include Gen Powell, Morgan Baker, Olivia Guenette, Candy Papestesis, Andrew Salcedo, Andrea McHenry and Jennifer Marles.
