Young Singers Wow Judges at Brandon Teen Idol Competition

Noting that they showed talent way beyond their years, the judges at the 2012 Brandon Teen Idol contest said they couldn't help but be impressed by this year's lineup.

Ten contestants age 10 to 17 mounted the stage at the Brandon Elks Lodge Sept. 29 to perform a variety of songs for judges Heather Cazzola, Oliver Sprague and Rachel Cohen-Stewart in the hopes of being named this year's Brandon Teen Idol.

Like the television show, "American Idol," the judges, all musical theater veterans, provided the teens with a critique following their performances.

"I got chills," Cazzola told 11-year-old Makaira Fisk after her lively performance.

All three judges commented on the unique "raspy" quality of 13-year-old Morgan Krikke's voice as she sang a soulful rendition of Adele's "Someone Like You."

"Build on your voice," said Sprague. "That's key. It sets you apart."

The judges said they were especially pleased to see four boys compete in a contest typically dominated by all girls, giving credit to Gary Baker, Kyle Moore, Eric Newman and Ian White for both singing and playing the guitar.

"It's awesome to see gentlemen sing and pour out their feelings through music," said Cazzola.

When all 10 singers had performed, the judges agreed choosing winners in the 10-13-year-old age group and the 14-17-year-old group was no easy feat.

In the end, they named Kassidy Gavagan the winner in the junior division and Makaira Fisk the runner up.

Alanna Oreste claimed the title of Teen Idol in the senior division with Kaylee Konsulis named runner up.

Bayli Faber was the People's Choice winner.

All proceeds from the contest will go to the Brandon Family YMCA to provide camp scholarships for needy children.