Daniel Shirley

About

Dr. Daniel Shirley is a Grammy-nominated tenor, Assistant Professor of Vocal Studies, and Director of the ECU Opera Theater at East Carolina University. He is recognized for his commanding stage presence and vocalism rich in color and character. Shirley has earned critical acclaim for performing contemporary operas, musical theater standards, and orchestral works. He made his professional opera debut in the world premiere of We Shall Not Be Moved and appeared in two Grammy-nominated recordings with Boston Baroque under conductor Kurt Sander. He maintains an active performance schedule across the Southeast, appearing regularly with regional opera companies including Kentucky Opera, Austin Opera, Madison Opera, and Long Beach Opera, as well as orchestras such as Seattle Symphony and Milwaukee Symphony. Shirley trained at some of America’s most notable young artist and apprenticeship programs, including Santa Fe Opera, Florida Grand Opera, Central City Opera, Opera Memphis, and Chautauqua Opera. A native of Jackson, Mississippi, he resides in Greenville, North Carolina.

Education & Qualifications

Bachelor of Music, Vanderbilt University Blair School of Music; Master of Music, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music; Doctor of Music, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music

Teaching Styles