EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Growing up, Eastern Michigan University alumna Dominique Cooper was known for being the little girl with a big voice. She grew up in the church and participated in the band and choir before declaring music performance her major at Eastern. The grad recently won placements and awards in the prestigious 2023 George Shirley Vocal Competition at the University of Michigan. She is determined to take the knowledge and wisdom she acquired from college and her mentors to educate those behind her and entertain global audiences. 

Cooper’s music appreciation was inspired by her high school choir teacher Greg Cleveland, an EMU alumnus, who introduced her to Eastern’s music program. Cooper thought she should attend EMU to be a great teacher like Cleveland. After hearing an EMU faculty recital, she developed a strong liking for music performance. However, Cooper didn’t get the bug for operatic music until her professors encouraged her to go that route.

“The encouragement I got from my teachers was something I needed because I was a bit insecure about my voice,” said Cooper. “I tried operatic repertoire, and I didn't realize my voice could do and be something like this.”

Cooper, who deepened her commitment to perfecting her voice through classes and coaching sessions, said there’s an advantage to getting a degree in music performance. 

“If one wants to acquire a deeper and fundamental understanding of music, taking music courses at an institution helps because there is always someone with expertise close enough to guide you, and there are also more resources available.,” said Cooper.

Since graduation, Cooper is now performing on big stages, including soloing at Eastern’s spring commencement ceremony and a national boxing competition. She also participated in the MODO Detroit Aria Competition as a finalist. 

“It’s amazing to hear how everyone cultivates their voice, so I appreciate competitions because I also meet many people. Cooper’s desire to be surrounded by amazing soloists led her to the George Shirley Vocal Competition, where she won second place in the collegiate competition. The competition is a three-day event consisting of rehearsals, master classes, and recitals from competitors ranging from high school to pre-professional levels. The competition aims to shed light on African American vocal repertoire and carry on the tradition through the performance and composition of African American Classical music. 

During this competition, Cooper connected with Marquita Lister, an American operatic soprano who was judging the competition. She reminded her to remember three things during her musical journey: confidence, preparation, and love of her voice. Cooper said growing up, she felt that there was always this pressure to be perfect and uphold the expectations of others, but Lister’s advice encouraged her to remember to embrace her voice and be grateful for how far she’s come.

“I need to love my voice and have confidence, pleasing the audience and myself,” said Cooper. “I need to make sure the steps I’m making are intentional and the steps I’m making bring me to the place I want to be. That’s why I say, take every step with intention,” she added.

In the future, Cooper wants to start her organization to support young artists by providing them with musician resources, performance experience and instilling the confidence to explore their authentic voices. 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 14,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.