Tichina Vaughn

About

Tichina Vaughn is an Associate Professor of Music (Voice) at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and a recipient of the 2025 IU Trustees Teaching Award. A Grammy-winning American mezzo-soprano born September 19, 1965, Vaughn is recognized for her superb, rich singing voice and theatrical presence. She won a 2021 Grammy Award for her performance in Porgy and Bess at the Metropolitan Opera. Vaughn began her operatic career as a member of the Metropolitan Opera's Lindemann Young Artist Program after earning a bachelor's degree in vocal performance from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Her American career expanded into Europe, where she served as principal artist with Dresden Semper Opera (2010-2018) and Stuttgart State Opera (1996-2006), receiving the title of Kammersängerin in 2006. Vaughn's international engagements have included performances at the Budapest and Greek National Operas, Opera Hong Kong, Las Palmas Opera, Finnish National Opera, Hamburg State Opera, Bregenz Festival, Korean National Opera, San Francisco Opera, La Scala Milan, Royal Opera Covent Garden, and the Arena di Verona where she performed over 50 performances. She has performed with major orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, and Philadelphia Symphony. Recognition of her artistry includes the Metropolitan Opera National Council Award, Richard Tucker Foundation Study Grant, Licia Albanese Puccini Foundation Award, Birgit Nilsson Foundation Award, and the Consul General's Award for Cultural Diplomacy from Milan. She is an active voice teacher and artistic advisor for SAS Performing Arts Company NYC.

Education & Qualifications

B.M. in Vocal Performance, University of North Carolina School of the Arts; Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Program

Teaching Styles