Melody Prater

Melody Prater, soprano, is dedicated to bringing classical music to the public through education and outreach. She believes that anyone can enjoy classical music, and her favorite productions are those shared with young children. In 2024, Melody partnered with Life Dementia Foundation to design and implement a music therapy program for participants and their caregivers. She worked closely with non-verbal individuals to build playlists that calm the nervous system and stimulate memory.

While Melody has studied several well-known coloratura roles, including Zerbinetta from "Ariadne auf Naxos" by Richard Strauss and La Fée from Massenet's "Cendrillon," she is also passionate about performing the music of underrepresented composers. She was recently a finalist in the Oberlin Conservatory Concerto Competition, singing "Heart on the Wall" by Robert Owens. Melody looks forward to her cumulative senior recital, which will feature the works of Libby Larsen and Carlotta Ferrari. Melody will graduate in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Oberlin Conservatory of Music.