Master of Music
Vocal Performance
Refine your artistry. Elevate your performance. Establish your voice.
Is This Program for Me?
The Master of Music in Vocal Performance is designed for singers who want to continue their musical and artistic growth. Students strengthen their technique, expand their repertoire and gain experience in a range of performance settings. The program supports advanced study while preparing graduates for professional opportunities in music.
This program may be a good fit if you:
- Want to strengthen your vocal skills and artistic voice
- Hope to perform in opera, musical theatre, concert or recital settings
- Enjoy focused vocal study and regular performance experiences
- Value guidance from experienced artist-teachers
- Want advanced training in vocal performance
Audition Expectations
To be considered for the Master in Music in Vocal Performance program and the Opera Birmingham Studio at Samford, singers must either audition in person on Nov. 20, Feb. 5, and Feb. 19, OR submit audition videos by the application deadlines.
Audition requirements: Five memorized, contrasting selections, with representation of English, German, Italian and French literature. Prospective students wishing to be considered for the Opera Birmingham Studio should present at least two arias at the audition, with an additional three selections of either art songs or arias. Prospective students who are not interested in the Opera Birmingham Studio should present at least one aria or oratorio piece at the audition, with an additional four selections of either art songs or arias.
What Will I Learn?
Students strengthen their vocal technique, stage presence and musical understanding through lessons, coaching and performance experiences. Coursework supports artistic growth while helping students build professional skills. Students study vocal literature from different periods and styles while preparing for public performance.
You Will
- Perform advanced vocal literature with technical control and musical maturity
- Communicate musical and textual meaning across styles and languages
- Strengthen skills in diction, vocal pedagogy and performance practice
- Apply music theory and music history to performance
- Work effectively with pianists, conductors and ensemble members
- Prepare audition materials and performance programs
- Demonstrate confidence and professionalism in performance settings
What Makes Us Different?
Samford's vocal performance program combines advanced training with personal faculty support. Students develop as performers while gaining experience in a welcoming and collaborative environment.
Performance-Focused Training
Students receive individual instruction and perform regularly throughout the program. These experiences support artistic growth and help prepare students for future opportunities.
Opera and Musical Theatre Experiences
Students perform in opera and musical theatre productions while exploring a broad range of repertoire. These experiences strengthen stage skills and artistic versatility.
Ensemble and Collaborative Work
Students perform with ensembles and work closely with fellow musicians. These opportunities help build musicianship, flexibility and professional habits.
Faculty Mentorship
Faculty mentors provide guidance in performance, artistic growth and career planning. Students receive support that reflects their goals and interests.
Guest Artists and Professional Experiences
Master classes, workshops and guest artists provide additional opportunities for learning. Students gain new perspectives while expanding their understanding of the profession.
Career Preparation
The Master of Music in Vocal Performance prepares students for advanced work in music. Graduates leave the program with strong vocal skills, extensive performance experience and preparation for future study or employment.
Prepare to Succeed
- Perform as soloists and ensemble singers
- Present recitals, auditions and public performances
- Continue study in doctoral and other advanced degree programs
- Teach private voice lessons
- Build portfolios of artistic work and performance experience
- Pursue opportunities in opera, musical theatre, church music and concert performance
Career Opportunities
- Professional singer
- Opera performer
- Musical theatre performer
- Concert artist
- Church musician
- Private voice instructor
- Ensemble performer
- Doctoral student in music
Performance & Professional Experiences
Students gain experience through recitals, productions, master classes and community engagement. Performance opportunities allow students to apply their training while developing confidence on stage.
Students also work with guest artists, faculty mentors and fellow musicians in settings that reflect professional practice. These experiences strengthen musical skills, broaden artistic understanding and support long-term career growth.
“Performing a named role in a fully professional production as a student is an honor and a significant responsibility. It challenges me to rise to professional standards while still in training, helping bridge the gap between student and emerging artist.”
Willian de Silva, ’26, Vocal Performance first year graduate student
