Columbia Teen Finalist in Video Music Contest

Columbia teenager Evan Johnson has been named one of six finalists in a national video music contest.

Johnson, a 17-year-old Atholton High School senior, is competing with five other teenage musicians in "Find Your Voice," an online contest sponsored by Facebook, Music & Arts, Yamaha and singer Greyson Chance.

Aspiring musicians between the ages of 13 and 17 were invited to submit videos of themselves covering one of 12 songs on an instrument.

Chance, the YouTube singing sensation who rocketed to fame after being discovered by comedian and talk show host Ellen Degeneres, and a panel of judges, reviewed hundreds of submissions and selected the most talented musicians based on their artistry, technicality and stage presence, according to a press release about the contest.

Panelists included "distinguished and highly respected" music educators from major universities who have guest-conducted major symphonies across the world and performed for the Olympic Games and past presidents.

"We were blown away by the talent and passion for music from all of the hundreds of entrants," Milt Allen, associate director of bands at Ohio State University, said in the statement. "It wasn't easy, but we narrowed it down to some incredibly talented young musicians, and now it's up to everyone to vote and decide.

Voters have through Feb. 26 to view the videos and vote for their favorite musician by going here: http://www.facebook.com/musicandarts?sk=app_209323549148612
.