The Division of Vocal Studies includes the departments of Voice and Opera Theater. Students in this division learn from faculty who have impressive performance and academic credentials. They develop students’ talents through courses in technique, performance readiness, linguistic style, staging, set design, and more.
Faculty
Our faculty comprises outstanding teacher-performers who are devoted primarily to undergraduate education. They maintain their own professional performance schedules while providing individual instruction and teaching classes spanning diction, repertoire, professional development, and wellness. Oberlin voice faculty are noted for spending generous amounts of time with their students via lessons, coaching, mentoring, and more.
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We prepare voice students for exceptional careers in opera, oratorio, recital work, early music, and the music of today. Qualified advanced students may earn the Artist Diploma in vocal studies.
Every year, 20 to 30 gifted singers enter degree programs in the conservatory. These students receive weekly private instruction from faculty members with impressive performance and academic achievements, and take courses in pedagogy, performance readiness, musicianship, musical style, diction, linguistic accuracy, and professional development. All students participate in weekly studio classes.
Vocal studies students have a wealth of opportunities to perform—in for-credit choirs and chamber music ensembles, as featured soloists with some of the conservatory's large ensembles and orchestras, and with varied student-led ensembles including a cappella and musical theater groups that give performances during the academic year. Nearby Cleveland provides many professional opportunities for students.
Opera Theater is a vital program in the vocal studies division. Courses include character development, body technique, directing, stage management, and more. Students have opportunities to perform in twice-yearly main-stage operas from the core repertory in Hall Auditorium, opera scenes presentations each semester, winter-term productions that feature new works, and student-directed productions.
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Vocal Studies Facilities
Eric Baker Nord Performing Arts Annex
The Eric Baker Nord Performing Arts Annex brings together these three theaters to allow the Department of Theater to stage a range of productions—from experimental works to full-scale plays.
Hall Auditorium
This 501-seat theater is used for large-scale opera, drama, and dance productions.
Irene and Alan Wurtzel Theater
The Irene and Alan Wurtzel Theater is part of the Eric Baker Nord Performing Arts Annex. The accessible and highly adaptable theater can accommodate up to 300 seats.
Kulas Recital Hall
With seating for 148, intimate Kulas is ideal for chamber music performances and solo recitals.
Otto B. Schoepfle Vocal Arts Center
Students can record, play back, and analyze vocal performances using sophisticated audio and video equipment. The lab features high-tech tools for examination of both the function and the timbre of the artistic singing voice.