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Opera Jobs in Cleveland, OH (NOW HIRING)

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Opera information

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$10

$16

$21

How much do opera jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for opera in Cleveland, OH is $16.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an opera singer?

An opera singer is a professionally trained vocalist who performs in operas, which are dramatic stage works combining singing, orchestral music, and sometimes dance. Opera singers use powerful vocal techniques to project their voices over an orchestra without amplification. They often sing in multiple languages and must convey deep emotion and character through their performance. Training for opera singing typically involves years of vocal study and language learning, in addition to acting and stage movement. Opera singers perform in opera houses and may also participate in concerts and recitals.

What are different careers in opera?

Opera careers include a variety of positions in and around an opera house. The opera singer is the most well-known position, but other roles involve helping manage the production, playing in the orchestra, marketing, casting, and producing materials for fundraising events. Most operatic roles involve a significant amount of coordination with other employees, particularly during performances, and you may start the planning process up to a year ahead of time. Office-based positions frequently use ticket and donor data to analyze trends, direct other employees to keep everything on-time, and purchase advertisements. Depending on your role, you may coordinate with non-profit companies or oversee interns.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an opera singer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Opera Singer, you need advanced vocal technique, musical literacy, and typically formal training such as a degree in vocal performance. Familiarity with languages (especially Italian, German, and French), stagecraft, and music notation software is also important. Exceptional emotional expression, stage presence, and strong collaborative skills set standout performers apart. These abilities are crucial for delivering compelling performances, mastering complex roles, and building a successful career in the competitive world of opera.

What are some common challenges faced by opera singers when preparing for a new role?

Opera singers often encounter challenges such as mastering complex vocal scores in foreign languages, adapting to varying stage directions, and balancing intensive rehearsal schedules. Learning to interpret a character both musically and dramatically requires significant preparation and research. Additionally, singers must maintain vocal health amidst demanding performance periods, and collaborate closely with conductors, directors, and fellow cast members to ensure a cohesive production.

What is the difference between Opera vs Stage Manager?

AspectOperaStage Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in music, theater, or related field; specialized training in opera productionRequires a background in theater, production, or stage management; often a degree or experience in theater arts
Work EnvironmentOperas, theaters, concert halls; often involves working with performers and production teamsTheater or performance venues; coordinating rehearsals, performances, and technical aspects
Industry UsageCommonly used in classical music and opera companiesUsed across theater, musical productions, and live performances

Opera professionals focus on singing, musical direction, and production of operatic performances, while Stage Managers coordinate all aspects of live performances, including rehearsals and technical operations. Both roles require strong organizational skills but differ in their specific responsibilities and industry focus.

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What job categories do people searching Opera jobs in Cleveland, OH look for?

The top searched job categories for Opera jobs in Cleveland, OH are:

What cities near Cleveland, OH are hiring for Opera jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, OH with the most Opera job openings:

Opera jobs near you
Infographic showing various Opera job openings in Cleveland, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,136 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Assistant / Associate / Professor of Voice

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Cleveland Institute of Music..
See more jobs at Cleveland Institute of Music..external

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Summary


The Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM) invites applications from nationally or internationally recognized artist-teachers for a full-time faculty appointment in Voice (Tenor, Baritone, Bass-Baritone, or Bass). While this position will begin with the 2027-28 academic year, CIM seeks to fill it in time to include the successful candidate in the audition process, starting in early 2027. 

In alignment with CIM’s mission, vision, and institutional learning goals, the successful candidate will teach assigned applied voice students, primarily in the Conservatory, but their studio may also include occasional students from the Academy (pre-college) or cross-registered students from Case Western Reserve University. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a proven record of recruiting and teaching outstanding students in a conservatory or university music school, experience guiding students along multiple stages of development, and a noted reputation as a performer. 

Review of applications begins September 28, 2026[FG4] , and continues until the position is filled. Please submit a cover letter that responds to CIM’s mission and vision; statement of your teaching philosophy; CV; links to 2-3 videos of solo, opera or concert performances; and 3-5 references with contact information. Additional materials may be requested at a later date. 

This is a bargaining unit position covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between CIM and AFM Local 4. The hired individual will be ranked as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor depending on qualifications. CIM and the hired individual will negotiate compensation and a personal contract, within the pay ranges of the CBA and subject to its terms and conditions of employment. [FG5] 

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Empower each student to perform with technical prowess and informed, compelling artistry in pursuit of a top echelon music career or, for Academy students, in pursuit of study at a top collegiate program, by: 
    • Comprehensively and sequentially guiding them through their course of applied study during their degree or program at CIM.
    • Teaching applied voice lessons and studio classes.
    • Preparing students for regular participation in performances.
    • Preparing students for curricular assessment requirements.
    • Mentoring students along their educational and career paths.
  • Maintain national/international visibility, actively recruit prospective students, and participate in all stages of the application, audition, and enrollment process.
  • Serve on faculty panels for hearings, juries, recitals, etc.
  • Depending on background and experience, responsibilities may include teaching repertoire, pedagogy, diction, or opera training classes; directing or assisting with opera scenes; coaching vocal chamber ensembles; and other related instructional activities.
  • Communicate promptly, professionally, and effectively with students, families, faculty, and administration.
  • Adhere to Faculty Duties and Expectations document and Employee Handbook.

Education, Experience and Qualifications

A qualified candidate will possess:

  • A Doctor of Musical Arts degree in voice or a master’s degree in voice with demonstrated relevant experience or must meet CIM’s Tested Equivalency Policy. 
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience teaching promising students of various ages and levels, and a track record of helping them achieve their desired outcomes.
  • A reputation as a successful solo, opera, and/or concert performer.
  • An awareness of various pedagogical approaches and the ability to apply them to each student’s unique needs and goals.
  • An extensive knowledge of a diverse and dynamic repertoire that can inspire and connect with students and audiences from a variety of backgrounds. 

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate is an excellent musician and focused teacher whose experiences and passions are oriented towards guiding, developing, and nurturing students. This role requires:

  • Curiosity, creativity, and imagination in one’s own artistry and aspirations.
  • Familiarity with trends and best practices in higher education and voice pedagogy, with a firmly developed personal approach to teaching and student development.
  • Working independently and consistently demonstrating a high level of reliability, responsibility, and trustworthiness.
  • Consistent, timely response in communications and planning as part of a team.
  • Ability to take concrete steps to build a more inclusive future of classical music.

Working Conditions

The successful candidate will need to work within their own and students’ demanding schedules to regularly schedule instruction, which may occur in the evenings or on weekends.