San Francisco Conservatory of Music

At the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM), the Opera and Musical Theatre program delivers intensive, conservatory-level training for singer-actors who pursue careers in musical theatre and opera. As one of the few conservatories on the West Coast with such a focus, SFCM blends rigorous vocal coaching, acting, stage movement, stage combat certification, diction, and professional development—structured within either Bachelor or Artist Diploma tracks.

Each academic year features four fully staged opera or musical theatre productions—accompanied by full or chamber orchestras—performed in venues such as Caroline H. Hume Concert Hall, the Ann Getty Center, and other campus performance spaces. Recent seasons have included classics like La clemenza di Tito, Die Fledermaus, The Enchanted Pig, and musicals like The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, She Loves Me, Company, and Urinetown.

The curriculum is distinguished by its balance between artistic excellence and comprehensive musicianship. Voice and opera students receive weekly private lessons and coachings, plus performance workshops and vocal training led by esteemed faculty—many of whom are connected with San Francisco Opera and Broadway. Students develop audition materials, build portfolios, and gain stage experience at some of the region’s top venues.

Performance labs and showcases complement the major productions. Programs such as the Musical Theatre Workshop focus on ensemble singing and scenes drawn from American musical theatre repertoire, offering opportunities to explore composer-specific works in smaller, collaborative settings. These workshops further develop ensemble discipline, style study, and stage presence.

Graduates emerge with strong practical and vocal skills, a performance portfolio from multi-night productions, and readiness for careers in musical theatre, regional opera, performance ensembles, or graduate training. With its location in the Bay Area’s cultural hub, SFCM offers vital industry linkage and competitive performance platforms for students seeking artistic and professional growth.