The Vocal Department focuses on the principles of solo and ensemble performance, offering students a unique and rewarding sequential seven-year curriculum that includes on-going private voice lessons, studio classes, large and small ensembles, concert choir, opera workshop, music theory, piano lab, music history, solfeggio, eurhythmics, and the creative music technology class.

Students are trained to establish a professional discipline, musically and behaviorally, while learning the fundamentals of music, musicianship, and performance. Additional emphasis is placed on the importance of professional demeanor and appropriate appearance, forming the expectation for the highest standards of excellence in all areas of performance.

The department collaborates with professional music organizations, resulting in a variety of performance opportunities with the Opera Theater of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and the River City Brass Band. There is also a long tradition of master classes with internationally celebrated artists such as Jessie Norman and Marvin Hamlisch.

All vocal majors participate in the school’s concert choir, which performs two public performances annually. The choir has also performed with popular recording artist Josh Groban, and has opened for the Harlem Gospel Ensemble. Other opportunities exist to perform and travel with the Chamber Choir and the Jazz Vocal Ensemble.