Sigma Alpha Iota Nu chapter held their annual SAI Alumnae Chapter Scholarship Auditions at Pilling Chapel on Tues. Feb. 17.

Active members Christina Kruger, Ashley Mustard, Alicia Niemann, and Marlina Zimmerman auditioned for the Sigma Alpha Iota Alumni Scholarship that the SAI Alumni chapter raises to help fellow SAI sisters continue on in their music education. The performers were permitted eight to ten minutes for their auditions. The two winners, senior Alicia Niemann and junior Marlina Zimmerman, were selected after the performances.

Niemann, who studies music business, performed “Tangos 1 and 2” by Gustavo Beytelmann on her alto saxophone.

“The experience was great!” Niemann said. “While a bit nerve-wracking, it was well worth it. As one of the two winners, it was very humbling, and I was extremely grateful for the opportunity our alumni chapter has given us.”

Zimmerman, the other scholarship winner, performed “Ständcgen” and “Wie Melodien.” Both pieces were written by Johannes Brahms.

“It was very encouraging to know that the aspects that I have been working so hard on in my voice lessons show to others who watch and listen to me perform. The nerves were worth the confidence that I had in myself afterwards,” Zimmerman said.

Junior Ashley Mustard performed Taylor Swift’s “Safe and Sound” and Demi Lovato’s “Nightingale” for her audition. Junior Christina Kruger performed “Lied der Mignon” by Franz Schubert, “En Sourdine” by Gabriel Fauré,and “Als Luise” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart for hers.

Sigma Alpha Iota is an international music fraternity that celebrates the art of music. Founded on Jun.12, 1903 at the University School of Music in Ann Arbor, Michigan, SAI formed to “uphold the highest standards of music” and “to further the development of music in America and throughout the world.” It is a member of the Professional Fraternity Association. The fraternity has been charted at over 300 universities, conservatories, and colleges.

To support Millikin students with an interest in music, SAI’s alumni chapter raises money for scholarships such as the Sigma Alpha Iota Alumni Scholarship by fundraising all year long.

“One [upcoming] fundraiser is SAI’s Variety and Dessert show,” Niemann said. “This will be the second year they are hosting the event, and they charge admission for guests to hear a variety of talented musicians perform and eat delicious desserts.”

SAI’s Variety and Dessert show will be on Apr. 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Imboden Gardens for those wanting to support the art of music.