I came to Taylor University in 2010 studying under Dr. Patricia Robertson, not knowing what kind of music major (voice) I wanted. I was put in the performance degree track and found that it was a wonderful fit for me. I had performance, leadership, musical theater, and ensemble opportunities through this degree. I presented both a junior and senior recital, while also serving as Assistant Conductor to the Taylor University Chorale. I served as a chapel band leader for 2 years as well. During my senior year, I was accepted at Indiana University for a Masters of Music in Voice. I went to Bloomington and completed my MM in 2016 and then my DM in Voice in 2020. While at IU, I had more performance opportunities (performing in 6 mainstage opera productions) and started my professional singing career with Opera Theatre of Saint Louis. I have since won several competitions (Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions Regional Finalist and winner of NOA's Carolyn Bailey & Dominick Argento Vocal Competition) and traveled to Prague in July 2021 to participate in Opernfest Prague's summer program. I am currently looking for university teaching positions since I have received a DM in Voice.
My time singing in the Taylor Chorale and Sounds were the most important experiences for me. I grew in my vocal abilities and traveled around the world. I loved the performances on campus and around the community. I grew as a soloist and performer and also as a leader. I also cherished the time spent on my floor (2nd Gerig) and the friendships I made there. Though we are all separated, we still keep in contact with each other as our lives change and families grow.
I hadn't studied classical vocal music before going to Taylor. It was there that I was introduced to voice lessons and operas. Because of these experiences, I knew I wanted to get a doctorate in voice so that I could share this music with others. The history, literature, and pedagogy classes helped me grow as a musician and get into my top graduate school choice.
I have always loved that Taylor focuses on whole-person education. Since college is such an important time in one's life, I appreciated the variety of the liberal arts program and how it shaped my understanding of the world. I was able to learn more than just music fundamentals and really enjoyed the religion courses that are offered. By studying at Taylor, I felt more grounded as an individual as I went to pursue my other degrees.
Talk to your professors or alumni about your goals and use them as resources. I was able to make great contacts with prospective graduate schools/teachers because of Taylor professors and alumni. I encourage you to be brave and reach out with questions about next steps and how to prepare. Research other educational options (young artist programs, internships, etc) as well to see what other performers your age are doing.
