Hello,
I auditioned for both the MT and VP programs at OCU in November. I am a baritone, and my voice has a very dark warm tone quality and lies better in classical music, however I am still very interested in the world of musical theatre. I know that because of where my voice lies the roles I will be playing in musical theatre will still be more legit classical style roles.
I was accepted to the vocal performance program, but not MT. At first I wasn’t worried because I still got a great talent scholarship and I knew I would still get training in both at OCU. The musical theatre song that they had me sing was a very operatic piece, so I’m guessing upon hearing my voice they thought I would do best focusing on opera. however, I’m noticing that the vocal performance program doesn’t have as good of a reputation as the music theatre program. do voice majors get equal treatment and attention as music theatre majors or double majors? do double majors tend to take the spotlight away?? how does OCU stack up to other vocal performance programs?
Congratulations @atxsinging on being accepted to the Vocal Performance program! The VP program is very well respected and its alums do great things both in opera and musical theater. During college, VPs get to audition for all of the musicals and many are cast in the musicals. (MTs also audition for operas and are often cast in those too) There is a lot of crossover between the 2 majors. They take many of the same basic classes together such as music theory, aural skills, choir, conducting, music history, etc… they even share the same voice studios. I do not believe there is a preference towards one major or another or towards those who double. OCU has a belief that a strong classical foundation is important for all singers.
If you really want to be in the MT program, there is an opportunity to re-audition for the MT program during your freshman year. It is not a given that you would be admitted, but the opportunity to audition is there. Interestingly, one of Ds friends who was doubling decided to drop MT and focus solely on VP. Another MT from her class switched to Acting as he didnt like all of the music specific classes for the Mt degree. It really is a personal decision. But all of OCU’s programs will provide you with excellent training and are well respected in the industry.