Kristin Kenning

About

Dr. Kristin Kenning is a Professor of Voice and Director of Samford Opera at Samford University's School of the Arts in Birmingham, Alabama. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Minnesota, a Master of Music degree from the University of Minnesota, and a Bachelor of Music degree from Western Michigan University. Dr. Kenning relocated to Birmingham from Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she worked as a freelance stage director and performer. She is passionate about teaching acting to young singers through opera workshop and opera productions. Prior to joining Samford, she taught voice at Luther College in Iowa and opera workshop at the University of Minnesota. As Director of Samford Opera, Dr. Kenning has led her students to significant achievements, including winning 1st place in the National Opera Association's Collegiate Scenes Competition in 2020 (Cleveland) and 2018 (New Orleans). She directed the world premiere of The Ghosts of Gatsby, which won the National Opera Association's Dominick Argento Chamber Competition in 2019. Her diverse performance background includes musical theatre, opera, jazz, church, and concert settings. Dr. Kenning has also worked as a freelance stage director with opera companies including Opera Birmingham and Mobile Opera.

Education & Qualifications

Doctor of Musical Arts, University of Minnesota. Master of Music, University of Minnesota. Bachelor of Music, Western Michigan University.

Teaching Styles