Sandra Bengochea

Professor Sandra Bengochea serves as Area Coordinator for Voice and Opera Theater in the Department of Voice at San José State University's School of Music within the College of Humanities and the Arts. An acclaimed soprano with over thirty operatic roles performed globally, she is recognized for her vibrant interpretations of lyric coloratura repertoire across comic and dramatic works by Mozart, Donizetti, Verdi, Puccini, and Massenet.

Her research and performance expertise centers on vocal arts, specializing in operatic interpretation and classical singing techniques. Professor Bengochea excels in both comic roles (Susanna in The Marriage of Figaro, Norina in Don Pasquale) and dramatic roles (Gilda in Rigoletto, Mimi in La Bohème), while maintaining significant presence in concert repertoire including Carmina Burana, Requiem, and Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. Her artistic approach emphasizes character-driven vocal expression and stylistic authenticity across Baroque to contemporary works.

As an active stage director, she has helmed Opera San José's productions of Tosca, Carmen, and La Cenerentola, demonstrating leadership in theatrical music interpretation. She balances her academic responsibilities with professional performance commitments and family life as a mother of two boys.