Stephanie Parsons Named 2012 Danvers Idol

After battling among fellow teenagers at on Saturday night, 17-year-old Stephanie Parsons was named the winner of this year's Danvers Idol. 

As part of her prize, Parsons, who lives in Peabody, will perform in front of thousands at next week's grand finale to Danvers Family Festival, the Fireworks Festival at . 

Learn more about Stephanie in our Q&A:

Congratulations on your Danvers Idol win! Tell us a little about the competition and how it felt to hear your name announced as the winner. 

For the [preliminary] round I auditioned with a jazz medley called 'Almost Like Being In Love/This Can't Be Love.' In the semi- final round, I was up against six other contestants and I sang 'Don't You Remember,' a soulful ballad by Adele. In the finals I was up against two very talented contestants, therefore, I knew I needed to "bring it." So, I decided to sing "Don't Rain On My Parade" from the hit musical, Funny Girl. When I heard my name announced, I was so surprised and ecstatic. I couldn't believe I was the 2012 Danvers Idol. After spending hours rehearsing, I was very happy with my overall performance.

How long have you been singing? Who are some of your favorite singers? Any specifics whose music you love to cover?

I have been singing my whole life, but began performing on stage when I was 12. In 2006, I competed in Peabody's Tanner City Idol Contest where I won the 9-12 Age Category and have been singing for audiences ever since. I love all kinds of music and I don't have any particular favorites, but some singers I love are Christina Aguilera, Birdy, Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Buble, Sara Barielles and Adele. So many artists have influenced me, but some musicians that I love to cover are Adele, Sara Barielles, Celine Dion, and so many more. I love to sing anything from old standards,emotional ballads, musical theater,pop songs and even some classical music.

What types of extracurriculars are you involved in school?

I will be a senior at Peabody Veterans Memorial High School in the fall. For music, I am a member of the chorale, the a capella group, and the Stage One drama club. I am vice president of National Honor Society, president of Student Council, a peer mediator, and a member of the Student Advisory Council. I have a lot of school pride and enjoy being involved in my school. Out of school, I enjoy playing piano, taking voice lessons, and performing for audiences whenever I get the chance.

What kind of music do you plan to sing at next week's Fireworks Festival?

I am still deciding what I will be singing for next week's 4th of July Festivities, but I plan on singing songs that will entertain the whole audience.

Are you nervous to sing in front of such a big crowd?

Although this will be my largest crowd that I have ever performed for, I'm not really nervous at all. I usually don't get nervous, but anxious and excited. Once I step out on the stage I feel a great adrenaline rush and the stage is my favorite place to be.