A Tooele teen who took third place at the Utah State Fair Music Competition last month is set to perform at the fair this Friday.

Stephania Neumann, a junior at Grantsville High School, competed in the Junior Wind/Brass/Percussion category of the competition, performing the first and third movements of the “Bloch Suite Modale,” as well as “Concertino” by Chaminade, on her flute.

Neumann said she chose the pieces because of their individual qualities. “Concertino” was chosen because the judges were looking for a piece with an orchestral score. The “Bloch Suite Modale” was picked because Neumann’s private teacher, Lisa Burns of Salt Lake City, thought that it would be a good competition piece.

“I was really shocked, and I cried,” Stefania said of winning. “I really don’t know why I won. I guess they just liked me.”

Neumann has been playing the flute for seven years. She plays in the Grantsville High School Concert Band, takes private lessons, and plays with the Utah Youth Symphony Orchestra.

“Stefania has worked very hard and she has earned this award,” Burns said, “She is one of the hardest working students that I have. I always look forward to lessons with Stefania. She is such a wonderful student and person.”

Burns also spoke highly of Neumann’s parents:

“Stefania receives a lot of support from her parents. They drive her to Salt Lake every week for her two-hour lessons.”

For her third-place finish, Neumann received $75 in cash and an invitation to perform at the Utah State Fair on September 5 at 7:00 p.m.