Idol Back in Abilene, Locals Show off Talent
By: Kristin Anderson
Updated: March 2, 2013
"It's a little nerve-racking. It's fun," said Priscilla Rayford. "Of course, you want people to see you and show your talents."
Four judges determined who would be in the top 15 to battle it out for the title of Abilene's Idol. And that's 15 out of the 100 that auditioned.
"We have seen all kinds of music, all kinds of singers," said Chorus Abilene executive director Gwynn Haseltine. "And it really gives some of these singers a place to sing and showcase their talents."
"I get a little bit of a rush from singing," said Priscilla.
Priscilla has been singing for as along as she can remember. The vocalist was a finalist in last year's competition, but that doesn't mean this year's audition was any easier.
"Well, believe it or not, I don't know if it shows, but I'm always nervous. So, I get my own version of stage-fright too," she explained.
Of course, it doesn't show. But that could be because she knows from experience that the other competitors will be on her side.
"It's a comradery. It's a community of people. And it's always fun," Priscilla said. "So you get to cheer for other people and they cheer for you."
Though she loves singing, Priscilla says the competition is about more than winning.
"It always brings out these undiscovered talents. It's magnificent," she said. "You get to see the little kids that really can sing. And then you get to encourage them so they continue to sing."
But while she's encouraging others, Priscilla has her eyes on the prize, and hopes to sing her way to the top.
The competition is hosted by and helps raise money for Chorus Abilene.






