
The CCPA voice program provides a nurturing environment to develop young artists, led by world-class artist-teachers. All students in our program study privately with their applied teacher for the duration of their degree program, and starting in the sophomore year also have a weekly private lesson with our vocal coaches.
Faculty employ a collaborative and collegial teaching approach to each student's development, cultivating sound technique and vocal health. Each year of the program, from freshmen through second-year graduates, has its own dedicated weekly performance class, which coupled with our showcases, opera productions, and recitals, offers many performance opportunities for each student.
Our faculty also teach courses, master classes, and seminars specific to the business of the performing arts career, adding professional development to the stellar technical and musical preparation.
For students who are looking for an intensive music conservatory experience paired with the rich musical and cultural experiences provided by living in a major city, CCPA will prepare help prepare students for a successful career in music. CCPA's emphasis on entrepreneurial activities also prepares students for multiple career opportunities after graduation.
Faculty employ a collaborative and collegial teaching approach to each student's development, cultivating sound technique and vocal health. Each year of the program, from freshmen through second-year graduates, has its own dedicated weekly performance class, which coupled with our showcases, opera productions, and recitals, offers many performance opportunities for each student.
Weekly performance classes, freshman and sophomore showcases, OperaFest, junior/senior opera, chorus performances
The voice faculty at CCPA comprises passionate teachers and performers who have been heard on the world's greatest opera stages. Students in the voice program will enhance their musicianship by learning and developing performance skills while also learning pedagogical techniques for teaching students. Plus, if you are a student at CCPA you will get to live in the heart of Chicago, which is one of the most culturally and artistically diverse cities in the world.
Applicants who are interested in Musical Theatre should apply through the Theatre Conservatory.
All Classical Voice auditions must be accompanied by a pianist. The CCPA Enrollment Office will provide an accompanist for all auditions in Chicago, although applicants may bring their own (except Opera Diploma auditions). Accompanists will NOT be provided at regional auditions in the US or Asia. All voice applicants auditioning regionally must provide and pay for their own accompanist.
All repertoire is to be performed from memory. No pre-screening recordings are required for undergraduate or masters level auditions.
Freshman (BM): The applicant should sing three (3) appropriate pieces from the classical Italian, English or American repertoire; French or German songs are acceptable if the student has proficiency. Applicants should not attempt songs or arias of a difficulty beyond his/her years of vocal ability. Repertoire that will demonstrate the quality and potential of the voice should be presented.
Sophomore (BM): Three pieces: a song in English; an old Italian art song; and a German lied, French chanson, or aria.
Junior/Senior (BM) or Graduate (MM): Four Pieces: Two chansons or two lieder, or one of each; a song by an English or American composer; and an opera, concert or oratorio aria.
Opera Diploma: Please visit the Opera Diploma program page for pre-screening, application, and audition information.