The legendary mezzo-soprano Marilyn Horne, whose five-decade career in opera, concert, and recital has been celebrated throughout the world, will be in residence at the Conservatory as Distinguished Professor of Voice, from October 14 through 17, 2005.

“Marilyn Horne is an icon,” says Dean of the Conservatory David H. Stull. “Her stature as a singer, secured by an astonishing performance career, is preserved not only by her discography but also by the legacy she has created as a teacher and mentor. We look forward to welcoming her to Oberlin.”

Regarded as one of the greatest operatic mezzo-sopranos in history for the power and artistry of her unique and dazzling coloratura as well as for her revival of many forgotten Rossini, Handel, Vivaldi, and Bellini operas, Horne will present three master classes in Oberlin, two of which will be open to the public. She will also teach private lessons with Oberlin voice majors.

“What a joy it is to be returning to Oberlin as a teacher after having sung there many years ago and having the most pleasant memories of that time,” says Horne. “I look forward to being there very much.” Horne has visited Oberlin twice before—in 1966 and in 1978—performing under the auspices of the Artist Recital Series (ARS). For her 1978 concert appearance, during the 100th anniversary season of the ARS, the Oberlin Orchestra, conducted by Emeritus Professor of Orchestral Conducting Robert Baustian, accompanied her.

Horne created the Marilyn Horne Foundation in 1994 to support young singers and the art of the song. She is vocal program director at the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, California.

The two public master classes, both of which will be held in Finney Chapel, are scheduled for Friday, October 14, from 7 to 9 p.m., and Sunday, October 16, from 3 to 5 p.m. General admission tickets are $5 for the public and free for those with an Oberlin College I.D. and can be purchased at Oberlin’s Central Ticket Service Box Office (440-775-8169).

This distinguished professorship is made possible with the support of the Danenberg Residency Fund.