Classical musicians on campus will have the opportunity to showcase their talents to the nation.International pianist and media personality Christopher O’Riley’s show “From the Top” will host live auditions in April as part of a three-year-deal with the College of Music and Dramatic Arts.O’Riley has been named as CMDA’s first distinguished visiting artist and will hold the title from 2010-14. Live auditons for “From the Top” will be held April 10 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the School of Music recital hall. Individual times will be assigned by appointmentAny classical musician from age 8 to 18 can auditon. Musical acts can be solos or ensembles. “From the Top” is an NPR and PBS show showcasing young musicians. Auditions for the show are usually sent in on tape or DVD.”We rarely do live auditions,” said Erin MacCurtain, communications director for the show. “The fact that we are holding them at LSU is very special.”The University has a three-year deal with “From the Top,” including live tapings of the show throughout Louisiana, community programs and more broadcast opportunities for college-age musicians. “The listener can’t wonder about the age of the performer — they have to sound like a pro,” said David Balsom, the show’s producer. “The perfomer also has to bring something else to the table. We want an interesting radio show.”A live taping of “From the Top” from the University is tentatively scheduled for Nov. 2 and will feature the winner of the live auditions.”The date isn’t set in stone, but it’s pretty firm at this time,” MacCurtain said.The auditions should be a great networking opportunity for the musicians trying out.”The auditions will likely draw musicians from surrounding states,”said Pamela Matassa, communications director of CMDA.O’Riley won’t be present for the auditions. “From the Top” staff members, including Caroline Cardiasmenos, assistant music producer, and Megan Lantz, director of the scholarship program, will listen to the auditions.Musicians who appear on “From the Top” also have an opportunity to apply for a $10,000 scholarship. The Jack Kent Cook Young Artist’s program provides money to the show for need-based scholarships.”We are really looking forward to this partnership with LSU,” said Balsom. “Dean Kaptain has some really great ideas.”—–Contact Mandy Francois at [email protected]