Shawn Marie Jeffery

Shawn Marie Jeffery joined the Conservatory in 2024, bringing 35 years of experience as a performer, director, administrator, and arts leader in the classical music industry. Formerly vice president of classical and creatives at UIA Talent Agency and managing director of ADA Artist Management, she is committed to helping emerging artists build successful careers. She regularly presents lectures and master classes on artistic and business trends in the industry, with engagements at institutions and organizations including the Atlanta Opera, Chautauqua Opera, Lyric Opera of Kansas City, Academy of Vocal Arts, Eastman School of Music, New England Conservatory, and Seagle Music Colony. She also has served as a judge and panelist for numerous vocal competitions and professional development events.

As an executive producer, Jeffery oversaw the digital world premieres of The Trial of Susan B. Anthony and Unknown, a project she conceived to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. She made her directorial debut with Christopher Theofanidis’s Virtue for the New Haven Symphony Orchestra and has directed productions for Spotlight on Opera, including Così fan tutte, scenes programs, and Don Giovanni in Quarantine, an innovative, remote adaptation created during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Previously, as director of education for Opera New Jersey, Jeffery developed and directed touring educational productions of The Magic Flute, Hansel and Gretel, La Cenerentola, and The Pirates of Penzance. These productions reached schools throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York, reflecting her longstanding dedication to arts education and audience development.