35th Anniversary Season
“The most consistently excellent series of classical concerts in the Washington area.”
Tim Page, Washington Post
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Benjamin Bernheim & Carrie-Ann Matheson
SUNDAY, February 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM
French tenor Benjamin Bernheim and pianist Carrie-Ann Matheson bring the elegance and poetry of French art song to Vocal Arts DC, in a program inspired by their acclaimed duo album, Douce France – Mélodies & Chansons. Featuring works by Gounod, Hahn, Duparc, and others, the recital showcases the beauty and depth of this cherished repertoire. With Bernheim’s luminous voice and Matheson’s expressive artistry, the evening promises an intimate journey through France’s rich musical heritage, blending romance, nostalgia, and refinement.
Quinn Kelsey & Craig Ketter
SUNDAY, March 1, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Hawaiian baritone Quinn Kelsey, renowned for his rich, powerful voice and commanding stage presence, brings his artistry to Vocal Arts DC alongside esteemed pianist Craig Ketter. This intimate recital explores themes of adventure, nostalgia, and reflection through Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Songs of Travel, a stirring cycle that captures the spirit of the wandering soul. Complementing this journey, selections from Aaron Copland’s Old American Songs celebrate the heart of American folk traditions.
songSLAM DC
SATURDAY, April 11, 2026 at 5:00 PM
songSLAM DC is a unique opportunity for 10-12 composer/performer teams to premiere new art songs and compete for $2000 in cash prizes. Each team presents a new song of 5 minutes or less for voice and one other instrument in any language. The voting audience then, in the poetry slam tradition, votes on their favorites and prizes are awarded to the first, second, and third prize winners. The DC event will be hosted by Lori Laitman!
Le Bu & Artyom Pak
SUNDAY, May 10, 2026 at 5:00 PM
The Gerald Perman Emerging Artists Debut Recital
The Gerald & Ann K. Perman Memorial Recital
2024 Operalia First Prize winner, Chinese bass-baritone Le Bu, makes his highly anticipated Washington, DC recital debut as the Vocal Arts DC Gerald Perman Emerging Artist. His performance marks the grand finale of our 35th anniversary season and is dedicated to the memory of our founder and his wife, Gerald and Ann K. Perman. Le Bu’s commanding voice and artistry have captivated audiences worldwide, and this recital offers a rare opportunity to experience his talent in an intimate setting.
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Past Events From the 2025-2026 Season
Erin Morley, Lawrence Brownlee
& Gerald Martin Moore
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2025 at 2:00 PM
Vocal Arts DC’s 35th anniversary season opens with two favorite artists. Soprano Erin Morley and tenor Lawrence Brownlee unite for an evening of exquisite artistry, joined by renowned pianist and collaborator Gerald Martin Moore. Leading up to the release of their long-awaited album, this recital offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience two of today’s most celebrated voices in a boutique setting, showcasing music that is deeply personal to them.
35th Anniversary Dinner
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Join us for an elegant evening following the opening recital of Vocal Arts DC’s 35th Anniversary Season, featuring the extraordinary trio of Erin Morley, Lawrence Brownlee, and Gerald Martin Moore.
La Bise offers a modern French dining experience and the perfect setting to toast the start of a milestone season. Our recitalists will be joining us for dinner. Valet parking is available as well as street parking near the restaurant.
Sasha Cooke Masterclass
MONDAY, November 3, 2025 at 2:00 PM
For this event, we are thrilled to be joined by four singers from the Denyce Graves Foundation. The Denyce Graves Foundation bridges the past to future by honoring overlooked musical voices and empowering the next generation of world-class artists. Cooke brings her extensive experience from the world’s most prestigious opera houses and concert halls to work directly with the next generation of singers.
Sasha Cooke & Myra Huang
TUESDAY, November 4, 2025 at 7:30 PM
Mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke and pianist Myra Huang bring their deeply personal and moving recital Going Home to Washington, DC, celebrating the rich tapestry of American song. Featuring works by composers who shaped—and were shaped by—America, the program explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for home. From folk-inspired melodies to contemporary reflections, Cooke and Huang’s artistry brings these stories to life with warmth and emotional depth.