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Northwestern University's voice and opera program boasts a distinguished legacy, with graduates performing in prestigious opera companies and teaching at universities across the globe.
Notable alumni feature Madison Leonard (16 MMus), a Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions champion; Paul Corona (06), another Metropolitan Opera winner and Lyric Opera of Chicago Ryan Opera Center graduate; Amanda Majeski (06), recipient of the Richard Tucker Foundation Grant and Ryan Opera Center alumna; Matt Hanscom (05, 07 MMus), San Francisco Merola Opera Program participant and Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions finalist; along with David Govertsen (10 MMus) and Evan Boyer (07), both Ryan Opera Center alumni.
The program's faculty provide comprehensive training through diverse courses that build technical mastery and teaching skills. Weekly voice lessons are complemented by performance opportunities such as opera workshops, solo classes, masterclasses, studio sessions, and recitals. Upper-level undergraduates and graduate students also engage in weekly coaching sessions with vocal specialists.
Annually, voice students can audition for three fully-produced operas, gaining critical experience with both classic and contemporary works. The vibrant Chicago music scene, just 12 miles from campus, presents further performance avenues for aspiring artists.
Secondary school record
Northwestern accepts results from both the TOEFL and the IELTS.
There is no minimum score required by Northwestern. Competitive applicants demonstrate a high level of English proficiency and often score in the high range on all four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing) of the TOEFL iBT, or receive IELTS band scores in highest three bands on the overall and individual scores (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking).