By Eason Franklin
The Lowndes Signal

Music is a form of art that can be appreciated by people from all walks of life, and members of the Central High School Alumni Association are bringing their love of music to all the citizens of Lowndes County.

Participants of all ages competed in auditions for the County’s Gospel Best on Mar. 6 to lend their voices at a chance of winning $300.

The competition is being held to sponsor graduating students and raise funds for the Alumni Association to host future events.

“Nerves played a large role in the try-outs,” said musician and pastor Franklin Nettles. “The competitors acted as though they were on American Idol.”

Participant Iresha Trone “broke the ice” as eight competitors ranging from ages 17 to 48 took their turn signing on front of the judges.

Varying from audition to audition, the panel consists of producers and professional artists, according to Alumni president Teresa Nettles. Singers are graded on tone, ability to hold a key and articulation.

Six of the eight competitors will be moving to the final round which will be held at the Central High School cafeteria on Apr. 11.

Some 14 total participants will be selected to advance to the final contest.

Another audition is scheduled for Mar. 20 and will be held at the Mt. Zion Christian Church located at 601 Freedom Road in White Hall.

No entry fee is required for the competition and participants must not have professional singing experience.

Admission for the final event will be $5 and will start at 3 pm.

“We hope to make this event an annual competition,” said Nettles. “Everyone is invited.”

Tickets are $5 and can be obtained at Central High School or by calling Franklin Nettles at 334-531-9406.