Catherine Cook

Catherine Cook is a mezzo soprano and professor at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM), where she holds the Frederica von Stade Distinguished Chair in Voice since 2006. She has performed over 50 roles in more than 300 performances with the San Francisco Opera and collaborated on world premieres by composers like Jake Heggie and Tobias Picker.

• Education: Artist Diploma, University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music; MM, Wichita State University; BM, Millikin University.

Her research and professional work focus on opera performance, voice training, and contemporary music. She is celebrated for her contributions to new opera productions and her mentorship of students.

Cook's career highlights include being a former Merola participant and Adler Fellow with the San Francisco Opera, winning the Metropolitan Opera National Council competition, and advocating for innovation in vocal arts education.

Scientific Awards:

• National Winner, Metropolitan Opera National Council (1990)
• Corbett Prize, University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music

Her students have achieved success in competitions and young artist programs at institutions such as Santa Fe Opera and Florida Grand Opera. She frequently teaches masterclasses and workshops on audition techniques.