Colleges for classical singers?

Question

I am currently a sophomore in high school, and I'm starting to think about college so that I can effectively plan for the rest of my high school career, but I honestly have no idea where to start.

I'm extremely interested in classical (opera) singing; I have been taking lessons for a few years and have done a lot of shows with my local opera company (Opera Pacific). I am seriously considering a career in classical voice, but I'm still young: I'd like to keep other options open.

I also have very high academic standards, so basically my question is this: What are some good schools that combine academics and singing? Once I decide on a school, how should I go about deciding what to major in, etc? This whole process kind of intimidates me :)

Answer 1

Ditto above plus, NYU, University of Indiana, Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (CCM), Northwestern, and Oberlin Conservatory. You are wise to be looking at a schools with excellent academic reputations as well.

In addition to selecting the program, make sure that you audition your potential teacher as well. You want to make sure that you have good "chemistry" with someone who will be so closely aligned with your development.

Once you have some your research into the programs. Look for:
1.) a quality program
2. ) in an area where you want to live
3.) that you will have performing opportunities as an undergrad (Sometimes only grad students get to perform)
4.) with a teacher that you like

Start to put together an audition portfolio now. Most schools will want at least one aria or language and one art song in English. Usually you will need one to three other pieces as well, so it's nice to have a variety.

Just a few things to think about if you are unsure about your major...Most music programs are highly regimented, so if you wait and don;t go full in immediately, it might take you longer to graduate. This is not necessarily a bad thing; it's just something to think about. Also, most school save their big scholarship money for those who are committed music majors (instead of minors, etc.).

Good luck with your decisions. These years fly by so fast... enjoy them.

Answer 2

I was actually the same way! I entered Baylor University (in Texas) as a vocal performance major - I just loved to sing! Halfway through my first semester, however, I decided I didn't want to make music my career, and now I'm studying biology, pre-med.

The thing about places like Juliard and other conservatories is that very little emphasis is placed on academics for performers. As far as a great place for vocal studies go, I'd say Eastman over Juliard ( I believe Juliard is stronger for instrumental studies, but I may be wrong).

University of Michigan has a great music program, as do places like Southern Methodist University, Baylor University (with heavy emphasis in music education), and many other large schools and some small liberal arts colleges.

I suggest leaving your options open by going to a larger school with lots of choices for majors, especially since academics mean alot to you. Hope this helps and good luck! Feel free to message me if you want to talk about anything!

Answer 3

There are several good schools for you. But, what you really need is the right teacher. You might want to decide what part of the country is good for you. Consider allergies and other things that could make it difficult to sing your best. I am in Texas and would recommend The University of North Texas. Many world class singers have come out of that program. But, if you can't sing around some of the trees of dust that are in that area, then that might not work for you. So, pick a region and go from there.

Answer 4

Well, start by asking your teachers.
I would bet that the top choices are likely to be in San Francisco and on the East Coast - such as Julliard. Read the bios in the programs for opera singers and see which ones studied at schools.

Answer 5

juliard, is ideal.