6. USC Thornton School of Music – Los Angeles, CA
Notable Faculty: Elizabeth Hynes, Gary Glaze
One of the premiere vocal music institutions in the country, USC has had vocal arts alumni cast into the professional spotlight for decades. Gary Glaze, noted tenor who performed for 14 seasons with the New York City Opera at Lincoln Center, has had very recent graduates of his studio perform in the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Opera, and in opera companies internationally. Other notable faculty members include Elizabeth Hynes, an operatic soprano who has been noted for a daring and bold interpretation of her Madama Butterfly.
5. Yale School of Music – New Haven, CT
Notable Faculty: Doris Yarick-Cross, Richard Cross, Timothy Shaindlin
World-renowned vocal coach and director Timothy Shaindlin, celebrated Yale legend Doris Yarick-Cross, and internationally recognized bass-baritone Richard Cross lead one of the most competitive and intensive graduate programs for vocal performance in the entire nation. The quality of the Yale Opera is on par with that of any major opera company: they are one of New Haven’s most favorite and famous music ensembles. Students of the program put on, every semester, a large scale opera production at the Shubert Theater. Alumni of the program consistently work with top ensembles such as the Metropolitan Opera, win major prizes including the Marcello Giordani Vocal Competition, and professorships at top universities throughout the world.
4. New England Conservatory – Boston, MA
Notable Faculty Members: Stephen Lord, Luretta Bybee, Karen Holvik
A historic department that has produced some of the finest vocalists performing on the international concert scene today – including alumni Denyce Graves and IMG artist Jill Grove – the New England Conservatory is home to one of the most impressive and talented departments for vocal performance in the nation. Students regularly work with Stephen Lord, whose name is consistently ranked amongst the most important of opera conductors and directors, as well as the acclaimed vocalists Luretta Bybee and Karen Holvik. If interested in seriously performing vocal studies and operatic performance, consider application to the New England Conservatory.
Listen to the Faculty: Check out this favorably reviewed Christmas album with NEC faculty member Luretta Bybee