Junior Nicole S. became a finalist in the 2020-2021 AMIS Solo and Ensemble Festival in March. The festival, held online this year, included multiple international schools across the globe. Students submitted videos of their performances to receive feedback from judges. Select Senior Division entries are chosen to enter the International Solo Finals later in April. Nicole was invited to participate as one of these finalists.

For her entry in the Senior Division, Nicole, competing as a vocalist, chose a classical French repertoire to perform called "The Jewel Song" from the opera Faust. 

With the help of Ms. Jeon, Ms. Page, and Mr. Ludwig, Nicole recorded her piece in the YISS auditorium and submitted the recording for judging, earning her a spot in the Solo Finals this month.

She has been singing ever since she was little, whether it was pop songs, songs from musicals, or classical songs. However, it was only in middle school that she participated in her first Solo and Ensemble festival by the KIMEA organization, where she won Platinum. After that first festival, she has continued competing and has been training with a voice teacher ever since. 

Because she has always liked singing, it was something she was willing to work hard for and pursue for her future. Nicole was also heavily inspired by the many classical concerts she attended when she was younger. She notes that watching the recording of the 25th anniversary of The Phantom of the Opera made her even more motivated to pursue a professional career in opera.