Judith Coen
Singer, vocal teacher;
Artistic Director of the Spoleto Vocal Arts Symposium

An internationally known opera singer and teacher, Coen discovered in the 1st grade that she had trouble reading — tripping over words, and becoming unable to speak in class.

She also discovered that when she sang she had no fear, and singing became her release and surest form of communication.

After struggling to earn two degrees at the Eastman School of Music and studying at the Opera House in Rome on a Fulbright Scholarship, she was able to translate her passion for music into a successful career as an opera and concert singer, whose own difficulties have helped make her an extraordinarily insightful teacher.

“Each person has a special place and gift,” she says. “Accept help, trust your gifts, and stop trying to be perfect. Concentrate on what you can do and rest in that.”