Ready for a life-changing summer?
The Lehrer Vocal Institute is the leading source to develop artists of impact and prepare them for a 21st century career in opera, art song, chamber music, and more. World-class teaching artists collaborate with and mentor participants to prepare them for performances — from a fully-staged opera and contemporary music performances to competitions and public masterclasses. Abundant training and dynamic opportunities support both the on and off-stage experience.
27 vocal institute fellows & 9 studio artists enrolled per summer
Training & Performance Opportunities
Bizet's Carmen
Fully staged production conducted by Daniela Candillari and directed by Ken Cazan.
Marilyn Horne Song Competition
Prizes include $5,000 cash award and a Santa Barbara recital with a world premiere.
Lessons, Coachings & Public Masterclasses
Study one-on-one with pedagogues from our world-class teaching artist roster.
Chamber & Contemporary Music
Participate in vocal chamber music, contemporary repertoire, and in recital.
Song & Creative Projects
Present a curated program of song led by Lawrence Brownlee and an innovative, semi-staged project with director Mary Birnbaum.
Industry Day
Singers and pianists will be heard by and receive critical feedback from prominent artist managers and casting directors.
Directing Fellowship
Prepare for a career as a stage director. Work as the Assistant Director of Carmen, on Opera Scenes and a Creative Project, and more.
Studio Artists
Up to 8 additional singers and 1 pianist will be invited for a 3-week residency. Sing in the opera chorus, a Festival performance, lessons, coachings, and more.
Additional Opportunities including opera scenes, movement class, career chats, & so much more…
Vocal Institute Teaching Artists
Sasha Cooke
co-director, Vocal Institute
John Churchwell
co-director, Vocal Institute
Mary Birnbaum
creative project director
Lawrence Brownlee
Mosher guest artist
Daniela Candillari
principal opera conductor
César Cañón
principal coach, studio artists
Ken Cazan
opera director
Margo Garrett
teaching artist
Manuel Gutierrez
teaching artist
William Long
assistant conductor & chorus master, opera
Patricia Kristof Moy
diction coach
Nils Neubert
diction coach
Nino Sanikidze
teaching artist
Tamar Sanikidze
head of vocal piano
Bill Schuman
teaching artist
Maureen Zoltek
teaching artist
