Master of Music in Voice in Vancouver Canada | The University of British Columbia

The Master of Music (M.Mus.) in Voice Performance is designed for students who have demonstrated exceptional skill at the undergraduate level and show potential for continued artistic growth. While this degree frequently serves as the terminal academic qualification for aspiring professional musicians, it can also prepare students for doctoral studies. Instead of a written thesis, performance candidates complete a recital. The standard program duration is two years. Our Voice department provides numerous performance and learning experiences, including masterclasses with distinguished alumni such as Ben Heppner, Judith Forst, David Agler, Renée Fleming, Sondra Radvanovsky, Angela Meade, Eric Owens, Luca Pisaroni, and Jane Archibald, alongside other accomplished artists and instructors.

Voice performance majors receive intensive coaching from Prof. Rena Sharon, Dr. Terrence Dawson, and other faculty members as they prepare for recitals and special events. Participation in Chamber music groups and ensembles like Contemporary Players and the Early Music Ensemble is both available and strongly recommended.

The Opera Workshop offers additional valuable experience for M.Mus. Voice Performance students. Those interested should reach out to Prof. Hermiston, who heads both the Voice and Opera Divisions.

The M.Mus. Voice Performance thesis consists of a one-hour recital, typically presented during the second year. We advise students to treat their first-year jury—a thirty-minute solo repertoire performance—as an additional recital opportunity. Note that thirty-minute recitals may include only one Opera or Oratorio aria, while full-hour recitals permit one of each. All program proposals must include a brief explanation of the recital's thematic concept or repertoire selection. Careful consideration should be given to creating a cohesive program rather than an arbitrary collection of pieces. The two recitals combined should demonstrate diverse, well-balanced repertoire approved by the committee. Students may also verbally present their rationale during the performance.

Graduate students remain continuously enrolled and may schedule recitals at any time with their committee's approval and availability.