University Spotlight: University of Memphis
In this column, we spotlight amazing vocal programs and highlight how they’re helping singers!
University of Memphis
Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music
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What Makes You Unique
The Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music at the University of Memphis offers the best of both worlds: the personalized training and mentorship of a conservatory combined with the resources, diversity, and opportunities of a major research university.
Located in Memphis, Tennessee, one of the most influential music cities in the world, they sit at the crossroads of musical tradition and innovation. From the blues and rock ‘n’ roll roots of Beale Street to world-renowned jazz, opera, gospel, soul, and symphonic music, Memphis is alive with sound. Students are immersed in a thriving arts culture with live music every night and countless chances to learn, perform, and collaborate both on and off campus.
They offer bachelor’s through doctoral degrees—and are proud to be the only music institution in Tennessee authorized to grant doctoral degrees in music. With 29 areas of concentration, including Vocal Performance, students are able to explore their craft in depth while preparing for professional careers in performance, education, composition, music business, recording arts, and more.
The Voice Area is led by a distinguished faculty of nationally and internationally recognized performers and teachers, including Matthew Burns, baritone, and Mary Wilson, soprano. Our professors maintain active professional careers, bringing current industry experience directly into the studio and classroom. This real-world perspective helps students build polished technique, artistic identity, and career readiness.
At the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music, students benefit from individualized instruction, abundant performance opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive artistic community. Whether your goal is the concert stage, the classroom, the studio, or beyond, this is a place where your musical journey will be inspired, challenged, and transformed.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Generous undergraduate scholarships and Graduate Assistantships available. Scholarships auditions are at the same time as admission auditions.
Performance Opportunities & Events
University of Memphis Opera Theatre produces 2 fully-staged shows with orchestra each season in our beautiful new performance hall at the Scheidt Family Music Center. This season includes a Triple Bill in November of Gianni Schicchi, Suor Angelica, and Il Segreto di Susanna in November, with performances of The Nightingale and an Opera Gala in the spring.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include William L. Langley, resident conductor the Atlanta and Baltimore Symphony Orchestras, Jason Wentworth, artist manager, Michael Egel, Des Moines Metro Opera, Dane Suarez, tenor, Janara Kellerman, mezzo and artist manager, Chelsea Miller, soprano, Jason Eschhofen, music director, Marissa Howard, soprano, Alex Colaizzi, University of Miami, Nancy Carey, University of Louisiana Shreveport, Desiree Howe, Rhodes College, Alyce Tarver, Rust College.
