Webster University

The Vocal Performance program aims to develop students for successful careers as performers.

The curriculum includes applied music and classes covering technique, repertoire in various languages and performance style. Repertoire from art songs, chamber music, opera and oratorio is emphasized. Voice students are expected to learn lyric diction in Italian, French, German and English.

Program director Carole Gaspar is an internationally acclaimed soprano and educator. She is the founding director of the Institute for Advanced Vocal Studies in Paris. At Webster, she is assisted by a faculty of professional teachers, pianists and vocal coaches who work closely together to ensure the students' personal focus on the art of music.

Students with a voice performance emphasis are expected to perform in a student recital at least twice every semester. They also serve as performance assistants for recitals.

Nine credit hours of a foreign language also is required. Students can fulfill the requirement by passing an intermediate-level language competency examination.

Applicants to the undergraduate music program must complete an in-person audition or interview with the music faculty and complete a music theory diagnostic examination. The examination is used to assist faculty in placing students in the proper classes.

Special Study Opportunites
Student musicians get to hone their skills in Vienna, home to legendary composers Beethoven, Mozart and Strauss where Webster has had a campus since 1981. Students may take instruction on their major instrument (voice, keyboard, trumpet, flute, etc - jazz or classical), take courses in music history - especially relating to Vienna's traditions, study composition, do special projects on opera, and participate in ensembles and recitals.