Jan Nelson

Style: World; Pop; Opera; Jazz; Folk; Gospel; Rock; Classical; Musical Theatre

Title: Voice Instructor

Bio:

Praised for her mellow voice and gorgeously sung performances, mezzo-soprano Janene Nelson is an affecting interpreter of opera, oratorio, and art song. She has performed throughout the Pacific Northwest, collaborating with a variety of established music ensembles. Ms. Nelson’s notable opera roles include Third Lady in Mozart’s "Die Zauberflöte," Nicklaus in Offenbach’s "The Tales of Hoffmann," Dorabella in Mozart’s "Cosí fan tutte," Beggar Woman in Stephen Sondheim’s "Sweeney Todd," and both Rosalinde and Prince Orlofsky in Strauss’ "Die Fledermaus". Recent concert performances include J.S. Bach’s "Cantata 36" with the Oregon Mozart Players, Handel’s "Cantata 132" with the Emerald Chamber Orchestra, and J.S. Bach’s "Mass in B Minor" with Festival Chorale Oregon. Ms. Nelson also appeared with the Oregon Bach Festival as a member of the Berwick Chorus from 2009-2015, and joined the Resonate vocal octet in 2021.

A versatile performer, Ms. Nelson is also active in both the new and early music scenes. She often collaborates with composers to premiere new works, with recent featured appearances at the Music Today Festival, with the Eugene Contemporary Chamber Ensemble (ECCE), and a recital of vocal works by composer Bill Whitley. A regular soloist with the early music ensemble Vox Resonat, Ms. Nelson has also appeared with the Oregon Bach Collegium, Jefferson Baroque Orchestra, and Northwest Baroque. Ms. Nelson holds a doctorate in vocal performance and arts administration from the University of Oregon where she studied with Milagro Vargas. She is currently on the voice faculty at Highline College, and runs Vaulted Voice Studios in Auburn. Ms. Nelson has also served on the voice faculty at Central Washington University and Western Oregon University, and has completed her Somatic Voicework Level I Certification for studies in contemporary commercial music pedagogy.

Voice Type: Mezzo-soprano

Music Styles Taught: World; Pop; Opera; Jazz; Folk; Gospel; Rock; Classical; Musical Theatre

Availability: I am available as a performer; I have a wait-list for private lessons; I am available as a clinician or presenter; I accept students through a college or university program

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