Connor Locke, mezzo-soprano, is said to be “a highly gifted singer” known for her “commitment, professionalism, curiosity, and receptiveness.” Her performances are marked by her thoughtful approach to her musicality and character, and her clear yet warm tone.
A graduate of DePauw University in 2020, Connor studied Vocal Performance and German, graduating with honors. Though just an undergraduate, she gained early experience in a wide range of roles, including Hänsel (Hänsel und Gretel), Cendrillon (Cendrillon), Cherubino (Le nozze di Figaro), and Jenny (Street Scene). Connor was also involved in the musical theater department at DePauw, and was cast as Sibella (A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love and Murder) and Inge (Young Frankenstein). Additionally, she was a member of the DePauw Chamber Singers, the highest level choir at DePauw, performing music that explored medieval to contemporary repertoire, which demonstrates her broad artistic curiosity.
During this period, Connor received several distinctions, including first place at DePauw’s Concerto Competition two years in a row, and first at the national level of the National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition. “The presentation of the Rose” scene (Der Rosenkavalier) with soprano Amalia Cravani granted her second place at the National Opera Association Competition (First Division).
In 2022, Connor was accepted into the Maryland Opera Studio to pursue her graduate studies, where she studied voice with renowned mezzo-soprano Delores Ziegler. Here she performed Zweite Dame (Die Zauberflöte), Estelle and Thelma (Later the Same Evening), covered Ramiro (La finta giardiniera), and sang the world premiere of Michelle in Sunder. In this unique opportunity, composer Naomi Nombeko shaped Connor’s role to her strengths and traits while working with her one-on-one. Connor was able to craft and have her own influence on the character. While studying at the Maryland Opera Studio, Connor was invited to take part in the University of Maryland Bach Cantata Series. She was the alto soloist in BWV 150 and BWV 34.
Connor continued her training during her summers off, which included singing the title role in La cenerentola with La musica lirica. She also sang Princess Tilda in The Three Feathers, a modern opera with Opera Steamboat.
In 2024, Connor became a part of the Opera Chorus at the Salzburg State Opera House. Here she made her professional debut, with roles such as Modestina (Il viaggio a Reims), Brautjungfern (Der Freischütz), and Zweite Magd (Martha). Her performance as Brautjungfern was said to “enliven the stage with [her] beautiful voice and agility.” Connor also participated in the Wiener Festspiele in the summer of 2025, performing Carmen and Mercedes (Carmen). She has studied with ground-breaking teachers of the current time such as Haus of Shmizzay, and currently Bryce McClendon.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.