Voice Lab

Fall Schedule -

Sunday, September 14th from 7 - 9 PM

Be Spectacled in Wauwatosa
Pianist - Anne van Deusen

(Slots open two weeks in advance)

Tuesday, October 21st from 7 - 9 PM

Florentine Opera Center in Riverwest
Pianist - Alejandro Alumbreros

Sunday, November 16th from 7 - 9 PM

Be Spectacled in Wauwatosa
Pianist - Julie Fraleigh

Voice Lab Explained

We don’t hold auditions at MOT because we prefer getting to know artists over a longer period of time.  If you’re interested in working with us, please consider attending a Voice Lab.  We typically hold 6-10 Labs each season.

What IS a Voice Lab?  Well, the idea is pretty simple: MOT hires a pianist for two hours, invites artists to share their work, and facilitates supportive conversations around that work. We do this for free, as one way to support area artists.

When Voice Lab began in 2008, we didn’t realize these monthly workshops would form the quiet backbone of the company.  Through Voice Lab, we’ve developed programming, commissioned new work, cast productions, forged friendships, found board members, and assembled a sprawling, beloved, artist-family that lives and makes art in Milwaukee. We hope to see you at the next lab!

  • What do people do at Voice Lab?

    People sing (but we’ve also had a few monologues show up).  Any and all repertoire is welcomed, though we often skew towards opera and music-theater. 

  • Who uses Voice Lab?

    Professional artists use Voice Lab to try out new pieces, or brush the dust off old ones.  Composers use Voice Lab to develop new work.  Avocational singers use Voice Lab to continue their practice or to return to singing after a hiatus.  Students use Voice Lab to prepare for competitions, auditions, and juries.  Everyone uses Voice Lab to grow in their craft.

  • What does it cost?

    It’s free!  We understand how many fees singers are asked to cough up throughout their education and careers.  Voice Lab is one way to develop work and be part of a community without experiencing a financial barrier.

  • How do I know when one is coming up?

    Two weeks before each Lab, we send emails and post the date, time and location on social media. If you’d like to receive Voice Lab emails, you can sign up here. 

  • How do I sign up?

    When a Voice Lab opens for reservations, you email Company Manager Danielle Gedemer at daniellegedemer@yahoo.com and let her know you’d like to sing.  We accept the first ten singers who request spots, and have a waiting list of two.  We do what we can to get the folks on the waiting list up to sing.  You’re always welcome to attend and listen.

  • Do I have to stay the whole two hours?

    No, though most people do.  If you need to arrive late or leave early just let us know.