Valdis Jansons

I am Valdis Jansons, an internationally acclaimed operatic baritone and Assistant Professor of Voice & Opera at the University of Michigan. I have performed more than 60 operatic roles in over 70 theaters worldwide, including Teatro alla Scala in Milan, Teatro San Carlo in Naples, the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, Theater an der Wien, and Lincoln Center in New York.

My artistic development took place in Italy, where I studied at the Conservatorio Arrigo Boito in Parma and attended the Accademia Rossiniana in Pesaro and the Accademia Pucciniana in Torre del Lago. This experience shaped my deep understanding of the Italian vocal tradition, particularly bel canto—the art of beautiful, free, expressive singing.

I hold a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Voice from the University of California, Santa Barbara. My repertoire spans a wide range of styles, with particular expertise in Italian opera and bel canto, as well as extensive experience in Russian repertoire.

I bring the perspective of an international performer and university professor to every lesson, helping singers develop their voices, musicality, and confidence through a natural, healthy approach to singing.

My teaching is rooted in the Italian bel canto tradition: beautiful tone, natural vocal freedom, legato, and expressive singing. I believe that good technique should feel instinctive, allowing the voice to work naturally rather than forcing it.

Every singer is different, so I adapt my approach to your voice, experience, and goals. Whether you are a beginner, developing your classical technique, preparing an audition, or working on advanced repertoire, we will focus on helping you sing with greater ease, confidence, and musical expression.

I specialize in Italian opera and bel canto repertoire, and I also offer expert coaching in Russian repertoire, including musical style, phrasing, diction, and interpretation.

My goal is simple: to help you understand your voice, discover its full potential, and enjoy singing.