EP members shine at the Minnesota Sings competition

Eden Prairie residents Laney Donohue and Sadie Maguire showed off their vocal talents at the two-day Minnesota Sings State Final singing competition held earlier this month in Fairmont.

Donohue, 20, sang Queen’s “Somebody to Love” and placed fourth in the 13 to 20 age category, winning a $500 prize.

Maguire, 15, performed Demi Lovato’s “Anyone” and finished seventh in his age category. She was awarded a prize package including professional music equipment from Gator racks and Mogami cables.

Donohue and Maguire secured their spots to represent Eden Prairie at the competition, which took place October 7-8 at the Fairmont Opera House, by placing first and second, respectively, in the Eden Prairie Sings competition! the competition took place in August.

This year’s Minnesota Sings competition had 63 participants. On October 8, the 16 best singers were announced during the grand final.

In the 13 to 20 age category, Albertville’s Elaina Wagoner took first place, and Elk River’s Noel Cruz won top vocalist in the 21 and up category. Both Wagoner and Cruise received a $5,000 grand prize and a recording session at The Garage recording studio in Burnsville scheduled for later this fall. They also received a $1,000 prize to donate to their favorite local charity, as well as a $500 bonus to the city sponsor who hosted their local Sings event.

Kyle Johnson, representing Waseca County, took second place in the adult division, and Anna Blasi of Cottage Grove took second place in the 13-20 age division. Both participants were awarded $3,000 and were given the opportunity to record at The Garage.

This year’s competition marked the organization’s 10th anniversary and awarded nearly $30,000 in cash prizes and professional music equipment throughout the event.

In addition to Donohue and Maguire, Eden Prairie residents Leo Pusateri and Christina Zaczkowski competed in the adult division.