Dale Kruse

Dale Kruse is an Associate Professor of Practice in Music at St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN, specializing in Voice and Lyric Theater. He teaches voice, conducts the Lyric Theater program, and emphasizes academic civic engagement through collaborative opera projects with elementary students.

• Education:
  • B.A. from Luther College
  • M.M. from Drake University
  • D.M.A. from the University of Minnesota

His research interests include vocal pedagogy, opera education, and community-based music programs. He founded Minnesota Opera's Project Opera, a voice training initiative for students in grades 4–12, and directed its Summer Opera Camp.

Key Awards:

• 2016-17 American Prize for Conducting – opera/musical theater (community division)
• 2024 Guest Conductor for Robbinsdale School District Fall Festival

He has served in leadership roles for the Minnesota NATS Chapter and performed as a tenor with renowned ensembles like the Minnesota Orchestra and San Francisco Opera.