Editor’s Note: Dr. Stephen Lancaster ’05 MSM is a fellow with the Nanovic Institute for European Studies who performs both as a soloist and as part of ensembles. This year, Lancaster was nominated for a Grammy Award for best choral performance.
Name: Dr. Stephen Lancaster
Class Year: 2005
Major: Master of Music in Vocal Performance
Student Activities: Notre Dame Chorale and Notre Dame Opera
Occupation: Associate Professor of the Practice, Voice Fellow, Nanovic Institute for European Studies
Affinity Group: ARC ND
What was your path to Notre Dame and were there any significant moments that influenced your decision to attend as a graduate student?
As I was finishing my undergraduate studies in sacred music, one of my professors forwarded a recruitment email from Notre Dame's professor of organ, Craig Cramer. A conversation with Prof. Cramer opened my eyes to the exceptional faculty and robust funding opportunities available for graduate students in music at Notre Dame. While I was aware of Notre Dame's reputation in academics and athletics, discovering its excellence in music was a revelation. The prospect of learning from distinguished faculty members along with plentiful performance opportunities convinced me to pursue my graduate studies there as a singer. My time at Notre Dame proved to be transformative, with several faculty members providing invaluable mentorship. I particularly enjoyed singing in the Notre Dame opera productions and serving as a graduate assistant in the Notre Dame Chorale.
Tell us more about your background in singing, vocal pedagogy, and new music. How has it impacted your life? What are some of your favorite memories or performances? What is your favorite type of music?
My journey in music began at a young age, singing in my church's children's choir. Over the years, I've developed a deep passion for vocal pedagogy and exploring different musical genres. My experiences as a singer in diverse spaces — as a soloist and in ensembles, traveling to different countries, making music in sacred spaces and concert halls — have shaped not only my career but also my outlook on life. Teaching singers to express themselves freely, authentically, and functionally is incredibly rewarding and inspires me to continue growing in my ability to express myself in different genres. Memorable performances include singing the baritone solos in the Fauré and Duruflé Requiems at Carnegie Hall, singing with the Exigence Vocal Ensemble at the Kennedy Center, and singing American Songbook tunes at the Gstaad New Year Music Festival. While I appreciate various types of music, I'm particularly drawn to art songs: singing poetry in collaboration with a pianist in intimate environments.
As a Notre Dame graduate and current professor, what advice do you have for current students? What do you love most about Notre Dame?
To current students, I would emphasize the importance of embracing every opportunity for growth, both academically and personally. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and pursue your passions wholeheartedly. Be yourself and foster an authentic community where all people are welcome. What I love most about Notre Dame is its unwavering commitments to excellence and holistic education, and its vibrant spirit of collaboration.
