Jim Thompson

When Jim Thompson '04 handed opera legend Simon Estes a tape of his senior recital during a benefit concert in Monticello, Iowa, he was simply seeking singing advice. But Estes invited Thompson to become his protégé at Boston University, prompting Thompson to leave his high school vocal music post for a master's program in vocal performance at BU.

"With almost 43 years of professional singing, Simon has so much experience," Thompson says. "Having sung with the likes of Pavarotti, Domingo, Carreras, Freni, and Leontyne Price, he has picked up tips from them along the way. So every time I go to my lessons, it is like I am studying from all of those people too."

Thompson says he thinks of Estes as a mentor and friend, not just a professor. He looks back at his Cornell professors with similar respect and fondness.

"The quality of the professors at Cornell is so high," he says.  "I still refer to Dr. Chamberlain’s theory lessons when doing my theory homework now.  Dr. Lisa Hearne is so knowledgeable about solo vocal repertoire, and is a fantastic singer herself.  Dr. Jama Stillwell and James Martin’s passions for history are so evident in their instruction.  I hope to be as intelligent of a musician as Dr. Martin Hearne.  And I can’t thank Dr. Thull enough for all of his guidance."

Thompson began his Cornell years in pre-engineering but realized he didn't want to have music be only a hobby. He switched to a vocal education major and performed with Concert Choir and Chamber Singers where he eventually earned soloist roles in major concerts.

Thompson graduates from BU in May, 2008, and hopes to land a spot in a national or regional opera company.