The performance resume for Nadia Aguilar-Steinberg might include such leading roles as The Queen of the Night in Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” and Musetta in Puccini’s “La Bohème,” but there’s another even the most talented singers never get the chance to perform.
That’s the role of “Star-Spangled Banner” soloist – with the president of the United States in attendance.
When former President Joe Biden visited UConn in October 2021, Aguilar-Steinberg was that soloist, belting out “O say can you see” before an audience that included a host of dignitaries on hand for the dedication of The Dodd Center for Human Rights.
It was just one of many highlights during her time at UConn.
Why did you choose UConn?
I chose UConn for my Master of Music and Doctorate in Musical Arts because of its incredible music and opera programs. More specifically, I wanted to study voice with someone whose teaching style aligned with my learning style. I had heard about an amazing voice teacher who specialized in sopranos. I took a trial lesson with Dr. Constance Rock and immediately knew she was going to help me achieve my goals.
What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?
My field of study is music and vocal performance. When I was a kid, my mom signed me up for music classes back in my hometown in Mexico. One thing led to another, and I ended up singing with a professional opera chorus. I had the opportunity to share the stage with incredibly talented singers. They inspired me, and I could not imagine myself doing anything else other than being on the stage. I was determined to become a singer, which led me to apply to the Hartt School in 2011. I was accepted and granted a full scholarship to pursue my Bachelor of Music. While I was already living here in the U.S., I decided to further my education, which is why I applied to UConn. The study of the human voice in music continues to fascinate me, which is why I continue taking classes as part of professional development. I am thrilled to continue passing on this passion I have for music to future generations.
Did you have a favorite professor or class?
It is very hard to pick a favorite as all the classes I took shaped my experience and contributed to my growth as a musician. Of course, the lessons with Dr. Rock were instrumental in my development as a singer and voice teacher. I also enjoyed Dr. Alain Frogley’s music history courses, and working with our opera director, Dmitriy Glivinskiy. Lastly, Dr. Eric Rice’s music notation class came in handy when I had to transcribe excerpts from a manuscript from 1865 to music notation for my dissertation. But my all-time favorite class is the one I took as an elective, Stage Fight.
What activities were you involved in as a student?
During my time at UConn, I was involved in a wide array of performances, from concerts with the UConn Choirs and chamber concerts to operatic performances with the opera program. Being featured as a soloist shaped my confidence and stage presence, not only to sing in front of an audience, but to stand in front of a classroom, which is what I do now. My engagement in opera performances allowed me to collaborate with colleagues, to express myself, and to learn more about music and other composers.
What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?
I was recently appointed permanent music professor and voice instructor at the Connecticut State Community College Manchester campus, where students who graduate receive an Associate of Arts in Music Studies degree. The Manchester campus is the only one in the CT State system accredited with the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). It is our goal to give students the best musical education possible and to align the learning outcomes with other universities, so students can transfer seamlessly to a four-year college program. My plans after graduation include creating connections with institutions such as UConn to continue opening doors for the underserved community colleges. In addition, I plan to expand my dissertation research, which focuses on bringing to light the opera from the 19th century “Romeo e Giulietta” by the Mexican composer Melesio Morales. I plan to continue working on the opera, which premiered in 1865 and was never performed again. As a citizen from Mexico, I engaged in this topic to add more cultural representation to the research done in American universities. My goal is to publish my research and eventually have the opera staged.
How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter of your life?
During my time at UConn, I was a graduate assistant. Teaching classes like Stage Skills for Singers, the Opera Studio, and voice students helped me develop tools and skills to teach today. In addition, witnessing my professors’ professionalism and commitment to their students inspired me to do the same with my classes.
Any advice for incoming students?
Allow yourself to explore other fields through elective classes. You never know what’s available until you ask. Also, try to be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adapt and make meaningful connections. To my music students, practice a lot. We (the teachers) can only do so much for you. The best investment you can make is using your time wisely and practicing outside of class. It is noticeable when a student puts in the work.
What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?
If you like to sing, you should try to join the UConn Choirs. Additionally, if you like live performances, take advantage of all the concerts offered at the Jorgensen, von der Mehden Recital Hall, Connecticut Repertory Theater, among other venues.
What will always make you think of UConn?
I am a huge fan of the Huskies basketball teams, and I watch and attend their games. I proudly wear Huskies merchandise often to remind myself of my amazing time at UConn.
