Study Voice in the Heart of Portland

A world of opportunities awaits aspiring vocalists at the PSU School of Music. Pursuing a Vocal Performance major at Portland State University provides a conservatory-level education right in the heart of downtown Portland, seamlessly connecting you to the city’s thriving arts and music scene for real-world professional opportunities. 

Our program allows you to tailor your degree to your specific passions, whether you choose to focus on jazz, choir, or opera. From introductory voice training all the way to starring roles in the award-winning opera program, your college career will be full of rewarding experiences. Performing in our internationally acclaimed ensembles and productions will help you develop the tools to be a well-rounded vocalist and a seasoned performer.

You can build your repertoire with the PSU Vocal Collective, sing diverse works with our outstanding university choirs, or take the stage in professional-level operas. Not only will you grow from your group interactions, you’ll also benefit from one-on-one attention with individualized voice lessons.

How to Study Voice at PSU

You can pursue a specialized music degree in voice through one of several majors: PerformanceMusic Education, or Jazz Studies.

  1. Submit Your Applications: Prospective students must apply to both Portland State University and the School of Music & Theater.
  2. Pass Your Audition: Entrance into the music major is determined by a performance audition.
  3. Engage in Ensembles: Once admitted, you will participate in core vocal ensembles such as the Chamber ChoirBriar (Rose & Thorn) Choir, the PSU Vocal Collective, or Opera productions while receiving weekly private instruction and studio masterclasses.

Ensembles

With a diverse array of award-winning ensembles, there is a place for every singer at PSU to develop their unique talents. Ensembles and performance opportunities are open to all students regardless of major.

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Dr. Harry Baechtel has extensive experience in the opera, oratorio and art song repertories, and is an advocate for both new and forgotten music in his diverse career in the vocal arts.

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Sherry Alves is the Instructor of Jazz Voice at Portland State University where she teaches applied jazz voice, improvisation, jazz pedagogy, jazz vocal ensembles and combos, and special topics in music history.

PSU's Music programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).