Dr. Clarissa Behr Davis
Dr. Clarissa Behr Davis
Voice
Reeves Hall, Room 241
CDavis@hindscc.edu
P: 601-857-3987
B.M., Belhaven College
M.M., Indiana University
D.M., Indiana University
Clarissa Behr Davis, dramatic coloratura soprano, has sung in operas, oratorios, and recitals throughout the United States as well as on national television. Major operatic roles to her credit include Violetta, Gilda, Cleopatra, and Madame Goldentrill. Regionally, she has been a featured soloist with the Mississippi Opera, the Mississippi Chorus, the Mississippi Symphony, the Jackson Handel Society, the Jackson Choral Society, the Vicksburg Chamber Chorus, the Mississippi Camarata, Heinichen’s Circle, the Chorale Acadienne, and many other musical ensembles.
Dr. Davis earned a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) from Belhaven College and a Master of Music (M.M.) and Doctor of Music (D.M.) from Indiana University. All three degrees are in Vocal Performance. She has minors in Vocal Pedagogy, Song Literature, Music History, Stage Direction, and Speech and Hearing. Dr. Davis studied with outstanding teachers. Her voice teachers include Virginia Zeani and Ouida Bass. Her vocal coaches include John Wustman and Mark Phelps. Dr. Harrylyn Sallis taught her piano and organ. Dr. Moya Andrews was her teacher and faculty advisor in Speech and Hearing.
Dr. Davis is the recipient of numerous musical awards that include being a finalist in the regional Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. The Journal of Voice published an article on “The Effects of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) on the Female Singer” that she co-authored with her husband, Michael Davis, M.D. Dr. Michael Davis is an accomplished organist and pianist. The husband and wife duo often performs recitals and programs that vary from sacred to classical. The Davises have two adult daughters.
Dr. Davis has been a member of numerous professional organizations that include National Association of Teachers of Singing, Mu Phi Epsilon, American College of Musicians, National Music Teachers Association, and the American Guild of Organists.
Having over forty years of teaching experience, Dr. Davis has taught music on all levels from elementary to graduate school. She currently teaches Voice and Music Appreciation at Hinds Community College in Raymond. She has served as music director, pianist, and organist in several churches and for numerous civic and genealogical associations. She has also served as stage director for community theatrical and operatic performances. She was awarded a Hinds Community College Faculty Life Star Award in 2010. Dr. Davis was awarded the Alumni of the Year in Fine Arts at Belhaven University in 2018.