Catrin Johnsson

Catrin is an in-demand opera singer, recitalist, voice teacher, stage director, language and vocal coach, and chorus master. She was born in Sweden and trained at the Royal College of Music, Stockholm and at the Royal Academy of Music, London. In 2018 she was awarded an ARAM from the Royal Academy of Music for “significant contribution to the music profession”. Other awards include the prestigious Christina Nilsson Award.

As a mezzo-soprano she has worked as a principal artist for companies such as English National Opera, Opera Holland Park and English Touring Opera. Roles have included the title role in The Duchess of Malfi for English National Opera and Medoro in Handel’s Orlando for the Åmot Opera Festival in Norway. Her numerous other roles have covered the A to Z of opera, from Adelberto (Ottone) to Zerlina (Don Giovanni).

Catrin made her debut for NZ Opera in 2016 in their production of the The Magic Flute. Since then, she has performed in their art song project Call of the Huia and recently sang the roles of Mum/Granny in Lucy Mulgan’s RED! and played several characters in the world premiere of Unruly Tourists. She also served as Chorus Master for their production of Le nozze di Figaro and conducted Hineraukatauri for New Zealand Opera’s contribution to World Opera Day.

In 2023 Catrin was Chorus Director for the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Carmina Burana. She also directed and conducted the University of Auckland’s production of Purcell's Dido and Aeneas. Catrin is language and vocal coach for Voices New Zealand Chamber Choir.

She has performed in concert at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room and St John's Smith Square in London, and she is a regular soloist for oratorio and orchestral concerts in New Zealand, working with organisations such as Bach Musica, Auckland Choral, St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra and the Auckland Philharmonia.

In her role at the University of Auckland, Catrin teaches voice, stagecraft, ensemble leading skills and communication skills for conductors, instrumentalists and singers. Many of her students are now studying at prestigious schools overseas.

Catrin frequently gives masterclasses, workshops and presentations - both nationally and internationally - on vocal technique, acting and creativity.

Catrin led our Sunday Singalong with Wagner