Bard College appoints opera singer Stephanie Blythe new director of graduate vocal arts program

ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON — Bard College announces the appointment of celebrated opera singer and recitalist Stephanie Blythe as artistic director of the Bard College Conservatory of Music Graduate Vocal Arts Program (VAP) beginning in July 2019. One of the most highly respected and critically acclaimed artists of her generation, mezzo-soprano Blythe possesses a repertoire ranging from Handel to Wagner and from German lieder to contemporary and classic American song. Blythe has performed on many of the world’s great stages, such as Carnegie Hall; the Metropolitan Opera; Covent Garden; Paris National Opera; and San Francisco, Chicago Lyric, and Seattle Operas. She was named Musical America’s Vocalist of the Year, received an Opera News Award, and won the Richard Tucker Award. Blythe recently released her first crossover recording on the Innova label with pianist Craig Terry.

“Life is full of extraordinary journeys. Some are planned, some are hoped for, and some are joyful surprises. My appointment to this wonderful institution is a bit of all three,” said Blythe.

“I have dreamed of joining the academic world for some time, but assuredly, becoming part of the VAP at Bard is beyond my wildest dreams,” she said. “I look forward to continuing the legacy created by Dawn Upshaw—to upholding the musical and educational values of the VAP, while looking ahead to the future development of this marvelous and singular program.”

Bard College President Leon Botstein said, “Bard is privileged to have a singer of Stephanie Blythe’s accomplishments, skill, and creativity leading our Conservatory’s Vocal Arts Program. The spirit and excellence established by our outstanding founding director will continue to flourish under Blythe’s leadership.”

Blythe is taking over the position from current VAP director and founder Dawn Upshaw, who will continue her role as a faculty member. Since 2006, illustrious soprano Upshaw has built this master’s degree program to reflect her unique career and artistry. Upshaw’s mission to plant the seeds of the highest artistic values in the next generation has been wildly successful, as evidenced by the richly varied musical lives of VAP alumni/ae. The program has combined a visionary curriculum with a committed and inspiring faculty, which continues the work of bringing these high musical values to future students. Botstein, the Bard Conservatory board, and College administration honor Upshaw’s work and look forward to the next phase of VAP’s evolution under Blythe’s direction.