Instrument/Department: Voice
Joined Hochstein faculty in: 2024
Dr. Michael T. Brown is a singer, teacher, conductor, researcher, and light opera enthusiast with two decades of experience teaching music in private and group settings from elementary levels through university students and adults. Born and raised in the Rochester area, he recently relocated home after years of teaching and performing in the greater Washington, DC and Columbia, SC areas. He has had credits in numerous productions and performances in venues on both sides of the Atlantic, including a cave in Sweden. He performed for three seasons with Opera Carolina’s Opera Xpress, bringing engaging operatic performances and depth of character to elementary audiences throughout the greater Charlotte area. He has also brought his acquired experience into the areas of stage direction and dramaturgy, most recently as the stage director for Opera Carolina’s Opera Xpress 2022-23 touring production of The Tortoise and the Hare, which saw over 70 performances in the greater Charlotte area.
Dr. Brown has a passion and a talent for helping individuals and groups realize their potential as singers and performers. He truly believes that every voice is worth developing, and this philosophy underpins all of his work as a teacher. While his formal training is mainly based in classical styles, he also has had significant experience in other areas including jazz, Broadway, and other popular genres. He holds degrees from Gordon College, Catholic University of America, and the University of South Carolina in Music Education, Vocal Pedagogy, and Vocal Performance (respectively).
More About Michael T. Brown
Hometown: Rochester, NY
What inspires me: Making music with all sorts of wonderful people
Why the arts matter: Every voice is worth developing, everyone can learn to sing, and good art brings individuals together to create strong communities!
Favorite things to do in Rochester area: Spending time outdoors (South Carolina was very warm in the summer!); Taking my kids to the Strong Museum of Play
When I’m not at Hochstein, you can find me: Performing in various locations, hiking, or embarking on other local adventures with my family and friends/
My favorite local restaurant: Too many to choose from!
Favorite places to travel: All over! I love New England (especially Rangeley, ME), but Scotland, Sweden, and Paris are among my favorite destinations.
Favorite style of music: I love listening to singer-songwriters.
What people would be surprised to know about me: I have two cats (Small Bob and Brigit); My non-musical hobbies are photography and martial arts.