Crane graduate advances in 'American Idol' auditions

Benjamin Bright, a 2005 graduate of SUNY Potsdam's Crane School of Music, is featured in the latest season of Fox's "American Idol." The Rome native teaches chorus and music at Cumberland Head Elementary School, West Chazy.

Mr. Bright, a singer-songwriter who performs in Plattsburgh bars and cafes, made it through the first round of auditions in Boston and is in Hollywood filming the reality show.

Mr. Bright sang "All My Loving" by the Beatles for his audition, which brought judges Victoria Beckham and Kara DioGuardi to their feet.

Mr. Bright auditioned alongside his identical twin, Brian, who didn't make the cut. Benjamin Bright's appearance on the show can be seen online at www.rickey.org/?p=30789.