After a visit from American Idols Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard, the group of 145 Canadian semi-finalists was gradually narrowed down to a final 30.

Performing July 7

Danny Balkwill, Vancouver, 24, freelance musician. Mikey Bustos, Toronto, 22, student. Candida Clauseri, Toronto, 20, singer. Jessica David, Toronto, 19, student. Kelly-Ann Evans, St. John's, Nfld., 26, music teacher. Tynisha Goddard, Winnipeg, 22, retail/student. Billy Klippert, Calgary, 24, guitar teacher and salesman. Andrew Leader, Montreal, 26, retail manager. Tara Martel, Winnipeg, 20, student/singer. Quisha Wint, Toronto, 26, vocalist.

Performing July 14

Bebe Booth, Calgary, 25, make-up artist. Phil de Torres, Port Coquitlam, B.C., 20, student. Marc Devigne, Winnipeg, 19, student. Jenny Gear, Carbonear, Nfld., 21, actor/singer. Tyler Hamilton, Edmonton, 26, renovations. Faith McMillan, Hamilton, 23, sales. Jermain Maxwell, Toronto, 25, child and youth worker. Joni Ro