Rock'n Music Idol semifinalists announced

Hundreds of contestants from throughout the state have auditioned in hope of becoming a Rock'n Music Idol for 2007-08. The competition, administered by Rock'n Music Academy in Middletown, is a search for New Jersey's most impressive musicians ages 7 to 17 in the categories of guitar, bass, drums, keyboard/piano, vocals and vocals/instrument. Contestants are judged by professional musicians based on style, originality and technique.

The following local students were chosen to advance to the semifinal round of Rock'n Music Idol 2007-08 and compete for a spot in the live finale:

Vocals and instrument: Gillian Ober of Colts Neck.

Vocals: Gina Marie Soffian of Freehold, Ashley Schiraldi of Manalapan, Amy Hans of Jackson, Julianna Lorenzetti of Marlboro, Taylor Frizziola of Jackson, Marycate Baroska of Howell, Loryn Bono of Jackson, Rebecca Avilleira of Jackson and Alyjah Decker of Jackson.

Drums: Mikey Rosen of Manalapan.

Bass: Ryan Heffernan of Jackson.

The semifinal round of Rock'n Music Idol 2007-08 begins Jan. 26. Judges scheduled to appear on the semifinal panel include New Jersey-based executive band manager Marie LaDolcetta, professional songwriter and recording artist Howard Lee Edwards Jr., and recent winner of Guitar Center's national King Of The Blues competition, Matt O'Ree. Details: www.RocknMusicAcademy.com.