Instrument/Department: Voice
Joined Hochstein Faculty in: 1998
Additional position at Hochstein: Chair, Voice Department
Riki Connaughton has proudly been a member of Hochstein’s Voice Faculty since 1998. She has recently assumed the position of Chair of the Voice Department. A mezzo-soprano, Riki has performed extensively in opera and oratorio, and was a soloist/choral scholar in sacred music for more than 30 years. She has performance credits in several operatic roles – including world premieres – and numerous oratorios, music festivals, and recitals across the US. She has performed in the great cathedrals of England and Scotland. She has participated in several recordings as well, and recently returned to participation in local musical theatre.
Riki received her vocal training from the Eastman School of Music and Tri- Cities Opera. She has a BA from the University of Rochester. She has served the Eastman School of Music as past Chair of Friends of Eastman Opera and chaired the Friends of Eastman Opera’s annual voice competition for several years. She is delighted to have been a long-time member of Hochstein’s Honors Certificate Program faculty panel, supporting musical excellence and growth of Hochstein students.
Riki believes in supporting her students, attending their productions and recitals, and encouraging them in confidence and vocal strength. She has dedicated her life to the pursuit of voice, and looks forward to working with all singers!
Riki is parent to three adult children. Two of them have pursued careers in theatre and music education. She lives in rural West Bloomfield with ongoing home renovations in her 200-year-old farmhouse, enjoying the beautiful countryside.