Meet José Miguel Santelices | Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance | Classically Trained Singer | Voice Pedagogue | Stage Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with José Miguel Santelices and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi José Miguel, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After earning my doctorate in vocal performance, I faced the reality of my career choice. Unfortunately, there is an oversupply of singers with doctorates nowadays, and very few university positions are available. Securing a professorship is almost like an impossible quest, where having an existing connection with the search committee makes for a significant comparative advantage.

Recognizing that my talents, years of study, and experiences could not go to waste, I decided to professionalize my voice studio and establish myself as a performer in the DFW area, my new home. Initially, I ran ads on Facebook and Instagram, offering a free trial lesson. However, this approach proved ineffective. Many of the potential students were simply interested in trying something new; while they would benefit from expert guidance, they were not ready or committed to embark on their singing journey.

I have since adopted the opposite strategy. Now, I offer an Initial Vocal Assessment at José Miguel Voice Studio. This 75-minute session, which is longer than the standard 60-minute lesson, costs slightly more than a regular lesson. It allows us to delve into not only vocal technique but also the student’s background, setting achievable goals. This process helps both the student and me determine whether we are a good fit to work together, while also providing the student with a clear understanding of where they stand and what they could achieve if they choose to continue lessons.

This new approach has been much more successful, as it attracts dedicated students and creates a more rewarding experience overall. My goal is to continue growing the studio and eventually open a full academy that offers training in all areas of the performing arts, with a focus on serving the Hispanic population of the Metroplex. This ties into my personal mission to bring my repertoire, particularly Hispanic music, to wider audiences worldwide, reflecting my Chilean heritage.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a firm believer in the Italian Bel Canto tradition. For me, talent without consistent effort and purpose is meaningless. The voice is the most unique gift we possess, and it evolves as we do. What initially drew me to this field—and what I continue to practice and encourage in my students—is the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Being an opera singer goes far beyond hours of technique building, working with voice teachers and coaches, learning the correct notes and rhythms for a role, translating the text word by word, and creating a believable character. It also involves studying the historical context and understanding how history has influenced music, collaborating effectively with colleagues, and building a personal brand and business that authentically represents you. It truly is a full-time commitment, yet one that I cannot imagine living without. Despite the countless rejections we face due to limited performance opportunities and an oversupply of singers, we persist.

I am proud of what I have accomplished in my first decade of singing. I built myself from the ground up. I wasn’t a naturally gifted singer, and I actually spent my first year and a half in college studying economics. Yet, despite my “late start,” I was able to catch up and apply the additional knowledge I gained to develop my brand and become the most professional artist I can be.

As I look ahead to this new decade, I do so with anticipation and preparation. That is the key: always be ready because you never know when your moment will arrive. Challenges will always exist, but it’s crucial to keep things in perspective, remember how far you’ve come, and know your worth. If you think politics requires a thick skin, try the performing arts!

This is the message I pass along to my students. My ultimate goal is for them to become their own best teachers. At José Miguel Voice Studio, my purpose is to help students find their unique voice and take pride in it; to guide them in the pursuit of knowledge and refinement of their technique so they can sing healthily and confidently; and to empower them to recognize their worth and experience the joy that we, as artists, have the privilege of sharing with others when we perform.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I absolutely love the Dallas Arboretum. In fact, I don’t think a single friend has visited without me taking them there. It feels like the perfect nature retreat right in the middle of the city. I even dream of performing there one day!

I’m also a big fan of the Dallas Museum of Art and, of course, the Opera House. As a Crescendo member of the Dallas Opera, I make sure to attend every production and enjoy networking with fellow arts enthusiasts at the pre-opera events.

When it comes to food, I have too many favorite spots to count. If I’m in the mood for Chinese cuisine, I’ll likely drive to Plano; for Korean food, Carrollton; and for Vietnamese, Garland. But if I have a friend visiting for the first time in Texas, a trip to Terry Black’s for some authentic Texas BBQ is a must.

I’m also an amateur chef, so my guests can always count on me to prepare a delicious meal or two!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to my family for their unwavering support throughout my artistic journey. In particular, I want to thank my husband, who has been my cornerstone during challenging times, helping me stay grounded and reminding me of how far I’ve come.

Locally, I am especially thankful to Our Lady of The Lake in Rockwall for being the first to offer me regular performance opportunities after relocating to the Metroplex. Their support has been invaluable in helping me establish myself in this new chapter.

I also wish to express my appreciation to all my mentors, teachers, and collaborators for their knowledge and guidance throughout my career.

Finally, I am deeply grateful to my students for entrusting me with their musical education and to my audiences for their commitment to celebrating the performing arts.

Website: https://www.josemiguelartist.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josemiguelartist/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jos%C3%A9-miguel-santelices-7677731b3/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/josemiguelartistofficial/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Jos%C3%A9MiguelArtist

Other: For voice lessons with Dr. Santelices, please visit: https://www.josemiguelartist.com/voice-studio

Image Credits
Image credits: Siggi Ragnar, Robert Breault, Michael Shoaf (Shoaf Creative Photography), Jack Gambassi.