Jon Harney

Jon Harney serves as Professor of Voice and Coordinator for the B.A. in Music & Music Minor programs at Montana State University's College of Arts and Architecture, School of Music. His expertise spans vocal performance, pedagogy, and choral conducting, with an office in Howard Hall 175 and contact via jharney@montana.edu.

Education:

• D.M.A. in Vocal Performance, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities (2000)
• M.M. in Vocal Performance, University of Minnesota (1996)
• B.A., Luther College (1993)

Professor Harney's artistic focus centers on voice science and pedagogy, opera performance practice, and choral conducting techniques. His background as an active tenor soloist informs his evidence-based teaching methodology, emphasizing physiological vocal production and stylistic authenticity across diverse repertoire from Baroque to contemporary works. This integrated approach bridges performance practice with academic rigor in vocal training.

His recent conducting portfolio (2021-2025) reveals deep engagement with symphonic-choral masterworks (Mahler, Beethoven), contemporary choral compositions, and thematic programming exploring rejuvenation and cultural narratives. The repertoire demonstrates technical mastery in balancing orchestral and choral forces while advancing artistic innovation in community-based music presentation.

Awards:

• Honorable mention, Minnesota District Metropolitan Opera Auditions (1998)
• NATS Intern Program participant (2002)

As a dedicated mentor, Harney has guided students to top graduate programs including Boston University, Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music, and Manhattan School of Music. His leadership extends to professional service as past president of Montana NATS (2007-2009) and direction of university ensembles including Opera Scenes and University Chorus.

Harney currently leads the Great Falls Symphonic Choir and founded the Montana Choral Artists chamber ensemble in 2023, building on prior roles as Intermountain Opera chorus master (2001-2015) and Bozeman Symphonic Choir conductor (2011-2022), demonstrating sustained commitment to regional arts development.