Cait Aloia
Voice Faculty
Hi! I’m Cait, and I’m thrilled to be a member of the HVS faculty and guide my singers on their vocal and artistic journey! Drawing from years of experience and a background in classical and musical theater styles, I bring a versatile and passionate approach to my teaching. Whether my singers dream of singing on the stage, in a recording studio, or the living room, I am here to help them realize their goals and be their biggest cheerleader!
My approach to singing technique stems from years of study at Oberlin and Rice, emphasizing evidence-based teaching and techniques from some of our most influential singers and pedagogues. From vocal warm-ups to performance techniques, I tailor my lessons to my singer’s unique needs and goals. Whether you're a beginner finding your voice or a seasoned singer looking to refine your skills, I'm here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.
But it's about more than just hitting the right notes for me. I believe in creating a supportive and nurturing environment where my singers feel confident exploring and growing as vocalists, artists, and people. I want my singers to take their vocal success into their own hands and continue to work and grow outside of the studio and our lesson time. By nurturing their minds’ ears and giving them the tools to achieve the sound they dream of, I can help my singers develop their musical persona into a unique work of art.
Like many of my singers, my journey in music began at an early age, nurtured by an innate passion for performance that captivated audiences from the onset. Encouraged by my grade school music teacher and supported by my family, I embarked on a trajectory that led me to excel in choirs and community theater productions and, ultimately, to pursue higher education on a music scholarship at Oberlin College, where I received my Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, and RICE University, where I received my Master of Music degree and Artist Diploma in Opera Performance. While at Rice and Oberlin, I sang leading roles and honed my craft onstage in ten operas. Singing changed my life in many ways, and I plan to continue on that path for years to come!
I have performed in numerous operas on stages worldwide, including the world premieres of Orfeo by Monteverdi and Nico Muhly and M. Butterfly by Huang Ruo at the Santa Fe Opera. At Santa Fe Opera, I also performed in Carmen, Tosca, The Flying Dutchman, and Rusalka. I am so fortunate to have been the first recipient of the Carolyn Bailey Argento Fellowship through the National Opera Association and to have won first prize in their competition in 2022. Outside operatic singing, I am passionate about chamber music and art songs. I try to exercise those parts of my heart and mind whenever possible, including programming recitals in and around Houston to showcase that repertoire and continuing collaboration with the Houston Chamber Choir as a soloist.
Throughout my teaching career, I have remained passionate about learning as much as possible about the voice to be a resource to my singers. I love exploring vocal techniques through books, seminars, and collaborating with colleagues. You may have seen me previously on the Vivaldi Music Academy and Alvin Community College faculty. My knowledge of our instrument grows with each of my students.
When I’m not teaching, you can find me practicing my skills as a nail technician and fostering kittens! Over the last few years, I have fostered over 20 kittens and matched them with loving homes.