Emily Riggs

Emily Riggs is an Associate Professor in the Music Department of the School of Fine Arts at Eastern Connecticut State University, teaching Voice Lessons, Class Voice, and Opera Diction for Singers. Her office is located in Fine Arts, Room 238, with office hours on Wednesdays (11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.), Thursdays (12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m.), and Fridays (11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.).

Education

• DMA in Voice Performance from the University of Maryland
• MM in Vocal Performance/Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College

Research Interests

Dr. Riggs specializes in Latin American Art Song and Comparative Pedagogy, with scholarly work deeply integrated into her performance practice. Her research explores vocal techniques across cultural contexts and historical art song traditions, informed by collaborations with ensembles like Eighth Blackbird and critical acclaim from the New York Times for her 2012 Brooklyn Art Song Society performance.

Awards and Professional Recognition

• National Associate of Teachers of Singing’s Emerging Leaders Award

Professional Leadership and Ensembles

As president of the Connecticut Chapter of NATS, Dr. Riggs actively shapes vocal pedagogy standards through adjudication and masterclasses. She co-founded the trio Ensamble Arte, performing internationally including at the University of Richmond (2018) and Galapagos Art Space in Brooklyn (2012). Her performance portfolio spans world premieres like Valerie, The Bartender (2018) and major works including Dvořák’s Requiem with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (2010).