Jason Hiester

Jason Hiester is an Associate Professor in the Department of Performing Arts – Music Education at Ohio Wesleyan University, where he teaches voice and conducting while directing both the opera and choral programs. He is a professional tenor with extensive performance credits across opera, oratorio, choral, and jazz genres, having collaborated with organizations like West Palm Beach Opera, Cincinnati Opera, and ProMusica Chamber Orchestra. Hiester also contributes to vocal education through leadership roles such as Chorus Master for Columbus Opera.

• B.M., University of Miami
• M.M., University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music (Voice)
• M.M., University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music (Choral)
• D.M.A., University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music (Voice)

Hiester’s research and practice focus on vocal music education, conducting pedagogy, and interdisciplinary performance. He pioneered the Civil War Reflections multi-sensory production and directs an international summer vocal program in Salzburg, Austria, supported by Ohio Wesleyan University Theory-to-Practice Grants (2010, 2012). His recent work explores historical and cultural contexts of vocal music through collaborations like the Travel-Learning course in Italy focused on Italian choral traditions.

• Schloss Leopoldskron competition winner (Salzburg, Austria)
• West Palm Beach Opera Competition winner

Hiester mentors students through his leadership of the OWU Chamber Choir and vocal programs. He has secured multiple grants to enhance educational experiences, including international travel funding. His professional activities span performance, conducting, and pedagogical innovation across diverse musical genres.

Hiester actively engages in creating immersive musical experiences, such as directing the OWU Chamber Choir’s Travel-Learning course in Italy and producing interdisciplinary performances like Civil War Reflections. His work bridges performance, education, and cultural exploration, fostering conservatory-level training for undergraduates.