Ann Marie Daehn

Dr. Ann Marie Daehn is a Professor in the Department of Music at Missouri State University, where she teaches voice and opera. She is a mezzo-soprano and stage director with an active performance and academic career spanning opera, oratorio, art song, and musical theatre.

Her research and professional interests include vocal performance, opera direction, and music by female composers. She has performed lecture recitals on the music of Sergius Kagen and is currently researching the career of mezzo-soprano Jan de Gaetani. She founded East Wing Songs, a nonprofit dedicated to commissioning and presenting songs about U.S. first ladies.

Daehn has received numerous honors, including multiple Ernst Bacon American Prizes, National Opera Association awards, and grants supporting her research and productions. She serves as Central Region Governor for the National Opera Association and is a member of Actor’s Equity and AGMA.

• 2022 National Opera Association Scenes Competition, National Finalist, Musical Theatre Division (Director)
• 2021 Faculty Research Grant: First Ladies in Song Project
• 2021 Charles Nelson Reilly American Prize in Directing, Professional Division, 2nd Place
• 2021 Ernst Bacon American Prize – Soloist Division, National Finalist
• 2020 Ernst Bacon American Prize, 3rd place
• 2017 Ernst Bacon American Prize, 1st prize

As director of the Missouri State University Opera Theatre, she has led nationally recognized productions and mentored students in performance and outreach. She also collaborates frequently with pianist Dr. Elizabeth Avery, touring recital series focused on female composers and American song.

Daehn is actively engaged in performance, research, and leadership in the national opera and voice communities, contributing significantly to the advancement of vocal arts and education.