Emery Stephens Jr.

Emery Stephens Jr. is an Associate Professor of Music (Voice) at St. Olaf College, specializing in diverse vocal repertoire that spans traditional and contemporary genres. His research focuses on underrepresented composers and music traditions, with notable collaborations including the Boston Art Song Society, Detroit Jazz Festival, and Michigan Philharmonic.

• Active performer in opera, art song, jazz, and blues
• Co-founder of the Singing Down the Barriers project
• Advocate for music education and community engagement

Educational Background

• B.A., Gordon College
• M.M., Boston University
• D.M.A., University of Michigan
• Commercial vocal training with Lisa Popeil

Research Interests

Dr. Stephens’ work centers on African American art song, cultural representation in music, and diversity in vocal repertoire. His publications and presentations address multicultural teaching, music pedagogy, and social justice themes in performance.

Publications & Projects

His scholarship includes articles in the Journal of Multicultural Teaching and Learning and NATS Journal of Singing, a book chapter in So You Want to Sing Spirituals, and the 2023 co-authored book Singing Down the Barriers. These works emphasize equity in concert programming and pedagogical frameworks for African American song.

Awards & Grants

• Regional finalist, Leontyne Price Vocal Arts Competition
• Minnesota state and regional arts grants

Teaching & Collaborative Experience

He has served as a master teacher for the Hampsong Foundation’s Song of America initiative and participated in educational projects with the Handel and Haydn Society, Boston Lyric Opera, and Detroit Opera. His stage collaborations include directors like Simon Target and Bill T. Jones.