Opera Legend Marilyn Horne to Visit in February

Marilyn Horne, the mezzo-soprano who has been called perhaps “the most influential singer in American history” by Opera News, returns to the campus of Oberlin Conservatory February 13-19 for a weeklong residency that includes master classes with Oberlin students and a celebration of the legendary vocalist’s career.

In addition to private study with Oberlin voice students, Horne’s visit—made possible through a gift by philanthropist Stephen Rubin—will feature a pair of public master classes at Finney Chapel: at 8 p.m. on Friday, February 14, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 16. (Master classes are free for students, Oberlin staff, and subscribers to Oberlin’s Artist Recital Series; $5 for the public.)

On Monday, February 17, Horne and Rubin will unite for "An Intimate Portrait," a celebration of Horne’s 80th birthday and conversation spanning her fascinating career on and off the stage. "An Intimate Portrait" will take place at 6:30 p.m. in David H. Stull Recital Hall (inside Bibbins Hall, 77 West College Street). The event is free and open to the public.

“Universally acknowledged as one of the greatest singers of the 20th century, Marilyn Horne has evolved into one of the greatest teachers of our time,” says Rubin, president and publisher of Henry Holt & Co. “The reason for this is simple: Marilyn has the goods, and she is that rare artist whose generosity of spirit allows her to share her magical secrets with an intelligence and candor that is enviably straightforward.”

In 2013, Rubin established the Marilyn Horne Professorship and Residency Fund, which supports a visit by Horne to Oberlin for the next three years. The fund also provides financial assistance for career-advancement opportunities for the most promising voice students in the conservatory. Those students will be identified as Rubin Scholars.

For more information on Marilyn Horne and other arts at Oberlin, visit the online Arts Guide.