Catherine Compton

Catherine Compton serves as Lecturer in Voice and Managing Director of the Opera and Ballet Theater at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, with additional faculty appointments at Summer Opera Tel Aviv since 2023. Previously, she held voice faculty positions at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley where she directed award-winning opera productions.

Her educational background:

• D.M. in Voice and Certificate in Vocology from Indiana University (2023)
• M.M. in Voice Performance and Pedagogy from University of Colorado Boulder (2011)
• B.M. in Music Education from Iowa State University (2008)

Compton's research centers on nineteenth-century lieder by women composers, vocal health habilitation, and gender studies in music. She actively presents at international forums including the International Congress of Voice Teachers and International Music by Women Festival, emphasizing sustainable vocal practices for performers.

Her distinguished honors include:

• 2021 PEO Scholar Award supporting her research on women composers
• National Opera Association Collegiate Production Competition victory for Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld

Through masterclasses on vocal health and German lieder, Compton mentors students in developing sustainable artistry. Her PEO-funded research and administrative leadership in opera production create integrated educational opportunities, bridging academic training with professional performance.

As Managing Director of IU Jacobs Opera and Ballet Theater, she oversees all productions and student development. Her administrative expertise extends to organizations including Metropolitan Opera Guild, Colorado Shakespeare Festival, and UTRGV Patron of the Arts, demonstrating cross-institutional leadership in music education.