An internationally acclaimed opera artist, Marilyn Tyler joined UNM’s music faculty in 1983 as director of opera studies. As a soloist, she performed under the baton of many of the world’s leading conductors including Leonard Bernstein, Georg Solti and Erich Leinsdorf. Tyler has performed with a number of major orchestras including the London Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony, Concertgebouw, and the New York Philharmonic. She received the UNESCO Award for the best recording of a contemporary composition for orchestra and soprano.

UNM’s opera program is thriving under Tyler’s direction and her students have been the recipients of major awards and are currently appearing on international opera stages. UNM’s Opera Theatre has been the recipient of three National Opera Association Awards. Ms. Tyler is currently General Director of the International Opera Academy in Rome.