California State University, Northridge
Carol Vaness has had an illustrious career that includes regular appearances at the world's major opera houses, including the Metropolitan, La Scala, the Vienna State Opera, and the San Francisco and Los Angeles Operas. She has collaborated with today's foremost conductors in operatic and symphonic repertoire, amassed a distinguished catalogue of recordings, and made frequent television broadcasts in Europe and North America. She is noted especially for the exceptional breadth of her repertoire, which ranges from Handel's heroines to modern American roles, and includes all of Mozart's major spinta roles and many of Verdi's greatest operas.
Throughout her career she has been recognized for the splendor of her voice and the artistry of her performances. She brings the truth and beauty of music to audiences everywhere.
California can take credit for her education, and she is truly an alumna of the California State University system. She received a bachelor's degree in music at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona and a master's degree in music at California State University, Northridge. Her beautiful voice was recognized by faculty at Pomona, and they recommended that she come to Northridge to study with Professor David Scott. She has continued to study with Professor Scott throughout her career.
Ms. Vaness has been a loyal alumna of the California State University, giving public credit to her mentors in a variety of media, including national radio broadcasts and the most important journals in the field of opera. She has contributed generously of her time and talent to support the vocal programs that prepare young artists at the university. It is rare that an artist of her caliber makes the time to stay in touch with her alma mater and support the educational process of other young artists. In recognition of her many contributions to the art of music, to the advancement of young artists, and to the California State University, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Northridge are proud to confer upon Carol Vaness the honorary degree of Doctor of Fine Arts.