opera singer
What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate coursework must be completed in 4 semesters (2 years)

Where will I take classes?
Atlanta Campus

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

  • Spring – November 15 (All concentrations except Conducting)
  • Summer – March 1 (Music Education concentration and non-degree programs only)
  • Fall – June 1 (All concentrations)

Master of Music, Concentration in Voice Performance, M.Mu.

Graduate Director
Dr. Lara Saville Dahl
[email protected]
404-413-5965 

The Georgia State University voice performance concentration prepares students for dynamic careers as performing musicians and studio teachers, offering comprehensive training at advanced levels for excellence in opera, oratorio, song recital and advanced vocal instruction. Through rigorous coursework and practical experience, students cultivate a deep understanding of vocal technique, interpretation, stage presence and repertoire, receiving personalized instruction from accomplished faculty for invaluable mentorship and guidance. Focused on honing performance skills, students actively participate in various vocal performances, showcasing their talents and building a versatile repertoire. The emphasis in Voice equips students with the necessary expertise and artistic finesse to pursue fulfilling careers as captivating performers and respected educators in the realm of vocal music.

Program Highlights

Guest Artists and Ensembles

Esteemed educators and professional musicians conduct concerts, workshops and masterclasses for students, encompassing various genres of vocal music and diverse career paths. Additionally, three resident ensembles, Bent Frequency, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta and Ensemble ATL contribute to the rich musical environment at our institution

Vibrant Location

The downtown location fosters connections with local music ensembles and venues like Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Red Light Cafe, City Winery, Atlanta Opera, nearby theaters, schools and churches. Alumni, faculty and students actively participate in the thriving music scene, performing in various professional groups within the city.

Studios and Resources

Students enjoy round-the-clock access to private and semi-private practice spaces, fostering creative exploration and rehearsals. The School of Music boasts six cutting-edge recording studios equipped with Pro Tools and other advanced software, providing professional-level resources for audio production.

College to Career

Students gain extensive performance opportunities with local and regional orchestras, contemporary chamber ensembles, churches, and professional conferences. Many students secure employment in neighboring schools and churches, acquiring valuable real-world experience in their field prior to graduation.

VIEW NOTABLE ALUMNI

Career Outlook

A Master of Music in Voice Performance from GSU equips graduates for diverse career paths, including professional vocal performance in opera, oratorio and recitals. With advanced training in vocal instruction, graduates can become sought-after studio voice teachers or join university and conservatory faculties. Opportunities also exist in choral direction, opera coaching, music administration and collaborative piano work. Graduates may choose to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, establish music studios or engage in recording projects. This comprehensive program not only hones performance skills but also provides a foundation for respected careers as captivating performers and educators in the field of vocal music.

students singing

Program Details

Please note: You must apply to both the Georgia State Graduate School and the School of Music.

Required University Application Materials:

  • Transcript(s): Upload unofficial copies of transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. The institution logo and your name must be present on the copies. Official transcripts will be required upon acceptance into the program.
  • Official TOEFL/IELT Scores (international applicants only): Institutional code 5251 should be used for reporting TOEFL scores.
  • Personal/Goal Statement: Please provide a statement of your educational and career goals (be as specific as possible).
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Upload within the online Slate application.
  • Writing Sample: Provide a scholarly/research paper on a subject in the field of music of a level of intellectual and critical engagement appropriate to graduate-level work.
  • Letters of recommendation: 2 letters of recommendation are required. Applicants must enter the names and contact information of the 2 recommenders within the application. An electronic recommendation request will be sent to recommenders, and recommendation letters must be submitted via this request. It is strongly advised that letters of recommendation are completed before the application deadline and are written within the last year. Recommendations submitted after this date are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
  • GPA: Students considered for admission into the graduate program generally have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Get started on the Graduate School Application.

School of Music Application Materials: Complete the “Start an Application” fields to view your specific application and audition requirements for the School of Music

Use the HOW TO APPLY link below when you are ready to apply to the Music School.

For all MM concentrations:
Applicants must have a Bachelor of Music degree. The graduate committee will consider applicants without a Bachelor of Music degree on a case-by-case basis. All graduate applicants will be considered for a graduate assistantship (except for Low-Residency Conducting MM applicants) based on their audition, their application materials and their academic transcripts.

For all AC concentrations:
Applicants must have a Master of Music degree. The graduate committee will consider applicants without a Master of Music degree on a case-by-case basis.

The Master’s in Voice Performance concentration at GSU offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to elevate the vocal skills and artistry of singers. Students in this program engage in a range of courses that cover areas such as vocal technique, diction, vocal pedagogy, repertoire and performance practice. Through individual voice lessons, vocal coaching and masterclasses, students receive personalized instruction from experienced faculty members.

The curriculum encompasses a diverse range of vocal repertoire, spanning different genres and styles. Students also have the opportunity to perform in solo recitals, opera productions and choral ensembles. The program places a strong emphasis on artistic expression, musical interpretation and stage presence.

Graduates of our Master’s in Voice Performance program emerge as polished and expressive performers, prepared to pursue successful careers as soloists, opera singers, ensemble members or voice educators.

For detailed requirements, see the course catalog.

At Georgia State, we understand that students come to our institution from a range of financial backgrounds. We value the investment our students make in their education, and we aim to provide access to scholarships and aid opportunities that can support students through their academic journey.

Learn more about tuition rates or use Georgia State’s cost calculator to determine the investment required for your course of study.

Fees: There is an applied music fee of $350 per semester for a one-hour (8000 level) lesson and $200 per semester for a half-hour (6000 level) lesson. Additional lab fees for certain courses may apply.

The Georgia State School of Music provides unparalleled opportunities to study and work among an inspiring community of musicians in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. Students receive exceptional training, are provided with meaningful opportunities and begin serious careers no matter what type of music drives their passion. The goals and outcomes from a graduate degree include:

  • Ensuring comprehensive exposure to an array of perspectives as represented by the various faculty approaches to music performance, music history, music theory and teaching styles.
  • Honoring the continuing traditions of music making and pedagogy while exploring new forms and contemporary issues within the various musical fields.
  • Developing pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships for undergraduate-level courses.
  • Preparing students for a professional career in music through rigorous performance preparation, exposure to important repertoire and attention to practical business aspects of various musical careers.

Contacts

Graduate Director
Dr. Lara Saville Dahl
[email protected]

Administrative Specialist, Graduate
[email protected]

School of Music
75 Poplar St, 5th floor
Atlanta, GA 30303

College of the Arts Logo35 Broad St., 4th Floor
Atlanta, GA 30303