Introduction
Dede Jorstad, mezzo-soprano, is a graduate of St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota with a degree in K-12 music education. She went on to gain a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Minnesota, with an emphasis in vocal performance and pedagogy. Dede has sung with many organizations in the Twin Cities, including 20+ years of performance with the Minnesota Opera Company.
She joined the faculty of St. Thomas in 1985, teaching first for St. Thomas Conservatory of Music. As an adjunct professor, she now teaches vocal studies for both the undergraduate and graduate music departments at St. Thomas. Along with teaching private voice lessons, Dede also has, for many years, taught voice classes emphasizing the fundamentals of the vocal process. She also maintains a private studio in her home where she lives with her husband, Jor.
Dede takes great pleasure in working with all levels of students, from pitch-matching beginners to professional performers. She considers herself an instrument builder, working hard to ensure timely vocal progress for her students. Dede teaches all styles of music, with an emphasis on musical theater, contemporary music, and working with the singer/songwriter on their music. While creating a non-pressure atmosphere in her studio, she emphasizes the joy and self-fulfillment that singing can bring.