Renée Rapier
UNI 150: People you should know
A voice trained at UNI, heard around the world
From the stages of Cedar Falls to opera houses around the world, Renée Rapier has built a career that blends technical mastery with emotional depth — a journey rooted in the training and mentorship she received at the University of Northern Iowa’s School of Music.
Rapier received her bachelor’s degree from UNI in 2009, with a major in voice and opera, as well as viola performance. In 2011, she continued at UNI, earning her master’s in voice and opera. As a graduate student, she was featured in the UNI School of Music newsletter, Rhythms, as a spotlight story.
“UNI means so much to me, as it has made me the artist I am today,” said Rapier. “The foundations I learned at the School of Music have given me the confidence to work with some of the top musicians in the world.”
Along with winning a Grammy in 2017 for her role in John Corigliano’s “The Ghosts of Versailles,” Rapier has had recognition within several competitions, such as being the national semi-finalist in the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, first place in the Palm Springs Opera Guild Competition, a finalist in the Seoul International Music Competition, a semi-finalist in Operalia and first place in The Brava! Opera Theater and James M. Collier Young Artist Program Vocal Competition.
Rapier completed several training programs through the Chautauqua Opera and the Merola Opera Program. She went on to join the LA Opera’s Domingo-Thornton Young Artist Program in 2011, where she made her professional debut as Stephano in Gounod’s Romeo et Juliette. Soon after, she joined the Adler Fellowship at the San Francisco Opera.
Photos courtesy of ReneeRapierMezzo.com. Used with permission.
Rapier has made various notable appearances including Wagnerian debut as Grimgerde in the San Francisco Opera’s visionary “Ring Cycle,” Donna Elvira in “Don Giovanni” and Jezibabe in “Rusalka” with Opera Steamboat, Rosina in “ll Barbiere di Sibiglia” with Opera San Jose, Cherubino in both “Le Nozze di Figaro” and John Corigliano’s “The Ghosts of Versailles” and Suzuki in “Madama Butterfly” at Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Seattle Opera, Opera San Jose and Tulsa Opera.
“The continued support of my amazing professors is what keeps me focused, grounded and on the right path,” said Rapier. “No matter where I go or whom I sing with, I am always proud to be a UNI School of Music alumna.”
Celebrate 150 years of the University of Northern Iowa by nominating individuals who have made a significant impact on our campus, community and beyond.
