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
















Application Form, Audition Process & Repertoire Requirements
October 15, 2023
Pre-Screening Round followed by Invitation-Only Live Final Round
Visit the Application Link for detailed audition repertoire requirements.
VOICE and VOCAL PIANO AUDITIONS
Prescreening Round results released in early-November. Once advanced to the Final Round, applicants will select their audition time on one of the following days. Schedule is first come, first served:
LIVE FINAL ROUND
HOUSTON, TX:
- Nov 16-18
NEW YORK CITY, NY:
- Dec 6-8
DIRECTING FELLOW SELECTION PROCESS
Pre-screening Round followed by Invitation-Only Virtual Interview Round. Prescreening Round results released by early-November. Final Round Interviews will take place in late November (dates TBD).
The Music Academy does not require proof of COVID vaccination.