The voice and opera program at Northwestern University has a long and illustrious history. Alumni fill the ranks of national and international opera houses and university faculties worldwide.

Recent graduates include Madison Leonard ’16 MMus, Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions winner; Paul Corona ’06, Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions winner and Lyric Opera of Chicago Ryan Opera Center alumnus; Amanda Majeski ’06, Richard Tucker Foundation Grant Winner and Lyric Opera of Chicago Ryan Opera Center alumna; Matt Hanscom ’05, ’07 MMus, San Francisco Merola Opera Program alumnus and Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions finalist; and David Govertsen ’10 MMus and Evan Boyer ’07, Lyric Opera of Chicago Ryan Opera Center alumni. 

The voice and opera faculty offer students a variety of courses that promote a strong technical and pedagogical foundation. Students receive weekly vocal instruction and have access to a number of performing opportunities including opera workshops, vocal solo classes, master classes, studio classes, and recitals. In addition, advanced undergraduate and graduate students participate in weekly musical preparation sessions with vocal coaches.  

Every year, voice students are invited to audition for the school’s three fully-staged operas. Participation in these operas provides students with invaluable experience and exposure to standard operatic repertoire as well as new operas. The thriving music scene in downtown Chicago, only 12 miles from campus, offers many additional performance possibilities.

The Bienen School of Music offers a number of special programs. Undergraduates may pursue dual degrees or double majors (music plus an outside field) or an ad hoc (self-designed) major. The faculty encourages and supports students interested in these opportunities.

All DMA students receive a full-tuition scholarship, stipend, and fully subsidized health insurance.