Guilford's Nick Fradiani Continues to Advance on American Idol Season 15

Nick Fradiani, who grew up in Guilford and plays in a Milford based band, has advanced to the next round of American Idol Season 15.

On Thursday night, he advanced to the ‘Group Round’ of American Idol, the hugely popular FOX television reality singing competition, reports Jack Kramer, of the Guilford Courier.

Fradiani, who now lives in West Haven, was a member of the Guilford High School choir for all four years.

“Guilford was always my hometown,’’ Fradiani told Kramer of the Guilford Courier. “I moved here my freshman year of high school,’’ which was in the year 2000. The 28-year-old graduated from GHS in 2004.

“I love the town (of Guilford), and I really appreciate everybody’s support,’’ Fradiani told Kramer.

Read the full Guilford Courier story here.

The Guilford Police Department also posted a supportive message on social media.

During the initial tryout, he told American Idol’s Ryan Seacrest last month that he was at a “loss for words,” after receiving the golden ticket advancing him to the Hollywood round of American Idol.

“I’m at a loss for words, it’s pretty unbelievable, it’s a crazy experience,” Fradiani said on the show. “California here we come.”

Fradiani performed Peter Garbiel’s classic song, “In Your Eyes,” for the initial audition.

This isn’t Fradiani’s first time at the reality TV rodeo. He auditioned forAmerica’s Got Talent last year with his Milford band, Beach Avenue, bandmates, performing original songs.

His band was eliminated at the beginning of the competition but that didn’t dampen Fradiani’s spirits — he’s back in the reality TV game again, this time going solo on American Idol.

Connecticut (and at least one person in Massachusetts) already supports its potential American Idol contestant, sharing messages of support on Fradiani’s Facebook fan page.

• So exciting! We’ll be cheering you on — Dawn Otto

• West Haven will be watching!!! good luck Nick Fradiani — John Laudano

• Good luck Nick on American Idol. From the first time I heard you sing “Coming Your Way” I knew you were going places. You will have my votes from MA!!! — Carol Low

• Gotta cheer on a hometown guy! — Angela Pelliccio Sweyd

• Bishop’s Orchards is proud to support Guilford’s Own Nick Fradiani as he makes his appearance on American Idol XIV!! Great to see such a talented individual get some well deserved attention!! He is an amazing person and supporter to his local community in Guilford & all over CT. All the best to him during this new and exciting journey! —Bishop’s Orchards Farm Market

So far, Fradiani has personally replied to nearly every message of support and expressed his thanks and gratitude.

“It’s going to be a great season, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s been going on,” he said.

Follow Nick Fradiani’s Journey:

• ‘Like’ Nick Fradiani on Facebook
• Follow Fradiani on Twitter
• ‘Like’ Beach Avenue’s Facebook page