Shepherd School

Language, legacy and la dolce vita: Shepherd School students explore the roots of opera in Italy

The program is designed to deepen students’ fluency in a language essential to the operatic tradition.

Shepherd School’s Ana María Martínez earns top honor from state of Texas

Martínez joins a distinguished list of honorees that includes fellow and former appointees Norah Jones, Miranda Lambert, Alecia Lawyer, Kevin Prufer and Letitia Huckaby.

When Rice feels like family: 2 deans, 2 daughters, an unforgettable commencement

It’s not every year that commencement features school deans wearing two hats — as academic leaders and as proud parents. Rice celebrated a rare and heartfelt milestone when two graduating seniors received their diplomas from their own parents.

‘Creating new knowledge:’ Rice congratulates more than 250 doctoral graduates

Rice conferred more than 250 doctoral degrees during its 112th commencement May 10 at Tudor Fieldhouse. Doctoral candidates along with friends, family and loved ones gathered for the ceremony, which included the awarding of doctoral regalia, congratulatory remarks, cheers and a few moments to reflect on this milestone.

A night to remember: Rice celebrates the undergraduate Class of 2025

Rice conferred more than 2,900 degrees to its newest graduates — the most in the university’s history — during its 112th commencement weekend held May 9-10.

Owl-standing achievements: Rice celebrates more than 750 graduates at advanced degree commencement ceremony

More than 750 freshly minted advanced degree graduates took their well-earned strolls across the stage at Rice's Tudor Fieldhouse May 10.

Shepherd School’s Brownlee wins Richard Tucker Award, the ‘Heisman Trophy of Opera’

“This award feels like a dream you don’t even let yourself dream,” Nicholas Brownlee said.

Senior Spotlight: Sophie Urban ’25

Torn between a conservatory and a university experience, Sophie Urban said she chose Rice for the “best of both worlds”: world-class musical training and a close-knit community.

Leila Josefowicz inspires Shepherd School violinists in master class focused on expression, artistry

Celebrated worldwide for her passionate advocacy of new music and her compelling interpretations of major repertoire, Leila Josefowicz brought that same energy and insight to a spirited session at the Shepherd School

New Art / New Music connects students and audiences at the Moody

This go-round, student composers responded to “Breath(e): Toward Climate and Social Justice,” filling the galleries with sound and giving audiences a different way to experience both the music and the art.

Owls fly high in Austin for first Rice Day at the Capitol

More than 50 Rice University students, faculty and staff visited the Texas Capitol in Austin April 14 for a day of advocacy, connection and celebration of the university’s impact on the state and beyond.

Living legend brings ‘The Ghosts of Versailles’ to life at Shepherd School

Before audience members took their seats for the sold-out performances of “The Ghosts of Versailles” at Rice’s Shepherd School of Music, they were treated to rare, behind-the-scenes insight from famed composer John Corigliano.

Shepherd School Symphony Orchestra welcomes new leader Miguel Harth-Bedoya with ‘New Beginnings’ concert

The concert marks Miguel Harth-Bedoya’s first time conducting the Symphony Orchestra since joining the Shepherd School faculty as distinguished resident director of orchestras and professor of conducting.

Shepherd School’s 50th Anniversary Community Day opens doors through music

The event was an open-to-all free celebration packed with musical performances, interactive activities and hands-on fun for visitors of all ages.

Dedicated arts calendar showcases Rice’s cultural offerings

It’s designed for anyone curious about what’s happening in the arts at Rice, from students and faculty to Houston-area residents and visitors.