Recent Missouri State Beartone Zack Kaltenbach, ’14, was chosen out of those thousands to get some airtime on the iconic television series.

Kaltenbach, who has a bachelor’s in entrepreneurship, auditioned for season 14 in Kansas City after being selected by producers when the show’s audition bus was in Branson last summer.

He appeared before celebrity panelists Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban with a rendition of pop star Bruno Mars’ “Grenade,” and secured his spot in the next round of Hollywood Week auditions, along with 217 others who received the famous golden ticket.

Music has been a part of Kaltenbach’s life as long as he can remember.

“I used to dance and sing all around the house as a kid, and I’ve been a part of choir since fifth grade.”

It was his senior year of high school before Kaltenbach got the nerve to sing solo.

“That was the first time my friends and family heard my actual voice. From that point on, I realized how much joy I got out of performing and I never looked back.”

MSU group helps alum prepare

Being a member of the Beartones, Missouri State’s all-male a cappella group, further shaped Kaltenbach as a performer.

The 22-year-old Lee’s Summit, Missouri, native had some “American Idol” ties even before the show: He went to the same high school as season seven champion David Cook.

“When I realized a hometown kid could win a show like that, I started thinking maybe I could, too.”

The “Idol” appearance brought Kaltenbach instant recognition.

“When my audition initially aired, all my social media sites instantly blew up. I had people from all over the country following me. The love and support has been amazing!”

Kaltenbach earned a spot among the top 48 contestants, but his journey on “Idol” came to an end following the showcase round at the House of Blues in Hollywood, California.

Kaltenbach is currently back in the Kansas City area, focusing his time on writing and recording original music. His ultimate goal is to move to Los Angeles and pursue a career in entertainment. The “Idol” experience, he said, has been life-changing.

“It was surreal to see myself on national television. To make it that far has made me realize that I am on the right path, and I should be pursuing music. I got to perform for huge names in the music industry, and that was a dream come true for me.”