Baritone John Drake hails from Athens, GA and is currently pursuing his Master of Music in Vocal Performance degree at Temple University where he studies with Dr. Marcus DeLoach. He recently performed as the baritone soloist in Vaughan Williams’ Dona nobis pacem at the Kimmel Center's Verizon Hall with the TU Orchestra and Choirs conducted by Dr. Paul Rardin. He also has the opportunity to perform the baritone solos for the Faure Requiem in June. In further concert work he was honored to perform as the baritone soloist in Herbert Howells’ requiem with the singers of The Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill directed by Dr. Daniel Spratlan. At the Northeastern regional NATS competition John recently competed, and after four rounds of judging finished with second place. He was also recently awarded the William A. Singer award from the Boyer College of Music and Dance for his distinction among graduate students. Most recently he covered Tarquinius in TU Opera Theater's production of The Rape of Lucretia. He also is excited to perform in the annual opera scenes concert where he will perform scenes from La Boheme, Fellow Travelers, and L’heure espagnole.
John has sung across the southeast United States in ensemble and solo settings, including at his alma mater the University of Georgia. Here he serves as the president of the premier choral ensemble of the university, the Hugh Hodgson Singers. His experience was defined by the many incredible concert opportunities he had performing as the baritone soloist in pieces such as Michael Haydn’s Requiem, Britten’s Rejoice in the lamb, Mozart’s Coronation Mass, and selections from Vaughan Williams’ Five Mystical Songs. Along with concert opportunities he has had the unique experience of performing to a crowd of fifty thousand plus as the premier vocalist at the University of Georgia 2023 commencement ceremony. He has performed roles including Don Alfonso, Luka, and Wagner with the UGA Opera Theatre, as well as a myriad of scenes throughout his time there.
His experience at Young Artist Programs has been a great boon in John’s development. Namely his participation in the American Institute of Music Studies in Graz, Austria. He performed in a number of concerts across southern Austria and worked with amazing conductors, teachers, and coaches. This summer he will be participating in the CoOperative program hosted at Rider university. John also has an intense passion for pedagogy, and since moving to Pennsylvania has joined the faculty at Philadelphia Piano Institute teaching voice to a wide demographic of Philadelphia locals with a passion for singing. He has greatly enjoyed Philadelphia and creating art in this beautiful city. He is currently in the studio of Dr. Marcus Deloach.