Voice Faculty

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Multi-genre Baritone Justin Spenner’s work is described as a "wild and anxious ride" (Star Tribune), “...deliciously funny and evil…” (Pioneer Press), and “...a mood” (audience member). They are known for their captivating work that spans opera, art song, chamber, avant-garde/experimental, folk, and metal.

Justin works locally and regionally with companies such as Mixed Precipitation, Edvard Grieg Society MN, Mississippi Valley Orchestra, 113 Composers, Theater Latte Da, Bach Society of MN, Opera Reading Project, Nautilus Music-Theater, An Opera Theatre, American Gothic Performing Arts Festival, Opera on the Lake, Skylark Opera, and Border Crossing. They have premiered and advanced the works of numerous living composers including Richard Barret, Tiffany Skidmore, Joshua Musikantow, Steven Takasugi, and Joey Crane. An accomplished improvisor, Justin spontaneously makes music in dark, hip venues like Resource, Berlin, Barely Brothers Records, and random alleyways.

Their work as a producer/composer stems from their philosophy that “sad songs will save us all,” using both historical song and avant garde music as a tool to explore mental illness, neurodivergence, and complexity in all its beautiful forms. Key ongoing projects include 10+ years of multi-practice tinkering with Schubert's Die Winterreise, the long-form metal band (ab)scheid, the experimental music podcast Is This Music?!?!, the art song duo poem|music, the avant-choir band To Be Named, Thing, and multi-genre song concerts under the B-Sides moniker.

Apparently never bored, Justin is a Teaching Artist and teaches a small clutch of interesting singers. They belong to two charming cats named Percy and Motley and an incredible Kelly.

And so much more - keep in touch at www.barispen.com!