Opera-like voices echoed through Knuth Hall Thursday night as voice students and faculty members graced the audience with American art songs.

SF State’s School of Music and Dance presented “American Art Song Recital” to an audience of nearly 50 in a one and a half hour performance featuring 16 students and three faculty members.

With one piano centered on the stage, vocalists appear one by one belting out songs by American composers in soprano range or baritone range.

American Art Songs are classical music repertoire during the 20th and 21st century.

“All the students are classically trained,” said Alisa Deeter, coordinator of vocal activities.

SF State freshman Natalie Leonard started off the show by performing “The Bird” composed by John Duke.

“I was a little nervous at the beginning,” said Leonard, 18. “I was able to sing in front of voice majors yesterday, so that got a lot of nerves out.”

Leonard has been singing all her life, she said. But this is her first recital.

According to Deeter, the School of Music and Dance presents a recital like this every year to allow students to showcase their ability.

“Voice majors need a place to perform,” Deeter said.

According to Deeter, auditions are held to perform in the recital.

“We look for quality of voice and caliber of material,” Deeter said.

Singer and pianist Benjamin Liupaogo played the piano for one act and sang for another act, showcasing his multiple skills.

With 18 different American composers and 27 songs, SF State senior Jenna Mendonea sat in the audience taking notes of each performance.

Mendonea is currently enrolled in “Music, The Listener’s Art” course which gives her the opportunity to experience music performances at SF State and write up reports following.

“It is really important to display the talent that the school has,” Mendonea said, 23. “It is also good for the students because they get practice to become better at what they do.”

“Seeing the teachers perform was fabulous,” she added.

For more information on upcoming performances, visit the events Web site.