Kevin Bylsma

About

Kevin J. Bylsma is an accomplished vocal coach, collaborative pianist, choral conductor, and organist with more than two decades of professional experience. He holds degrees from Calvin College, Bowling Green State University, and the University of Michigan, where he earned the prestigious Robert Glasgow Organ Scholarship. As Head of Music Preparation, Chorus Master, and Co-Artistic Director of Toledo Opera, Bylsma has worked extensively with renowned American singers including Samuel Ramey, Marilyn Horne, and Dawn Upshaw in recitals and master classes. He co-founded and serves as Artistic Director of the Ann Arbor Festival of Song, a prestigious festival dedicated to art song and vocal chamber music. For nearly three decades, Bylsma has been Associate Organist and Choirmaster at the historic Mariners Church of Detroit. His career also includes serving as Music Director of Community Programs for Michigan Opera Theatre and as vocal coach, accompanist, and chorus master for OPERA! Lenawee. Bylsma brings deep expertise in opera coaching, collaborative piano repertoire, vocal technique, and artistic interpretation. His work with singers of all levels emphasizes both technical excellence and emotional communication through music.

Education & Qualifications

Bachelor of Music (Calvin College), Degree in Music (Bowling Green State University), University of Michigan (Robert Glasgow Organ Scholarship recipient)

Teaching Styles