Sylvia O'Brien

Dr. Sylvia O'Brien is a prominent dramatic soprano and academic, currently serving as vocal lecturer at the Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM), specializing in French song, Lieder, and contemporary vocal techniques. She previously held teaching positions at Maynooth University, Dublin City University, and Technological University Dublin. Her research focuses on collaborative processes in vocal music, particularly with Irish composers like Seóirse Bodley and Brian Boydell. She is an active member of Musicology Ireland, presenting at conferences and delivering masterclasses internationally.

Education highlights include a Doctor of Music from Trinity College Dublin (2021). Her performance career spans major operatic roles (e.g., Tosca, Turandot) and concert works across Europe. She actively collaborates with ensembles like Evlana, commissioning new works and championing contemporary compositions. Dr. O'Brien also serves as an external examiner for RIAM and frequently adjudicates vocal competitions.

Research emphasizes melodic structure in vocal works, autoethnographic methodologies in artistic creation, and the role of collaboration in contemporary music. Her recent work explores 20th/21st century vocal techniques and their application in modern performance practice.