Xiaofeng Hou — Light Lyric Tenor & Singer-Songwriter

Born in 2002 in Beijing, China, Xiaofeng Hou is an emerging light lyric tenor and singer-songwriter whose career bridges the worlds of classical opera and contemporary music. Currently based in Boston, Massachusetts, Hou is recognized for his clear, resonant tone, musical versatility, and ability to convey both technical precision and emotional depth. His artistry reflects a unique fusion of rigorous conservatory training, extensive stage experience, and creative songwriting.

Education and Musical Formation

Hou’s musical journey began in China, where his vocal talent was nurtured through formal training and a deep passion for performance. He earned his Bachelor of Music degree from the China Conservatory of Music (2020–2024), where he studied with distinguished voice faculty and began establishing himself as a promising tenor. His undergraduate years were marked by operatic engagements and competition successes, laying the foundation for his dual path as a classical performer and recording artist.

In 2024, Hou relocated to the United States to pursue a Master of Music degree at the New England Conservatory (NEC) in Boston, one of the most prestigious music schools in the world. At NEC, his principal voice teacher is Bradley Williams, and he continues to refine his craft through the mentorship of internationally respected instructors. His artistic development has been shaped by guidance from an impressive roster of teachers, including Xingwa Hao, Darrell Babidge, William Burden, Allan Glassman, Stephen West, Jack Li Vigni, and Norman Reinhardt.

Vocal Coaching and Artistic Mentorship

Beyond formal lessons, Hou has benefited from the expertise of eminent coaches. His work with John Fisher—former Music Director of Teatro alla Scala and producer for Decca and Deutsche Grammophon—proved particularly influential. Fisher praised Hou for his “beautiful light voice” and offered personal encouragement. Hou has also been coached by Glenn Morton, Ennio Brugnolo, JJ Penna, Brett Hodgdon, Joel Ayau, Timothy Steele, Tanya Blaich, Justin Williams, Lisa Saffer, John Viscardi, Daniel Isengart, Eric Guo, and Gyan Maria.

This diverse mentorship has equipped Hou with a deep understanding of operatic style, diction across languages, and performance interpretation, enabling him to excel in both standard repertoire and stylistically varied programs.

Operatic and Performance Experience

Hou’s operatic career is already distinguished by notable roles and appearances. In 2025, he performed Tamino in Mozart’s The Magic Flute with Chicago Summer Opera, under the direction of Norman Reinhardt. That same year, he participated in Classical Lyric Arts, working with Glenn Morton, Ennio Brugnolo, and other leading figures in vocal pedagogy and performance practice.

His repertoire includes duets and ensembles from Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore, Verdi’s Falstaff, Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro, Don Giovanni, and La finta giardiniera. Hou’s adaptability allows him to handle varied stylistic demands, from the elegance of Mozart to the lyricism of Romantic opera.

Beyond individual productions, Hou has performed at major venues including the Golden Hall in Austria, the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing, and Jordan Hall in Boston. These appearances reflect his growing presence in the international performance scene.

Awards and Recognitions

Hou’s artistry has been recognized with an impressive list of international awards. Between 2018 and 2022, he won 1st Prizes in the World Grand Prix International Music Competition and the Bach International Music Competition. He earned the Gold Medal at the World Classical Music Awards (Romantic Period category, 2018–2021) and additional gold medals at the London Young Musician, Beethoven International, Manchester International, Royal Music Competition, and Vivaldi International Music Competition (Outstanding Nomination).

Other distinctions include 3rd Prize at the Stravinsky International Music Competition (Adult Group) and the Artistic Excellence Award from the Jacobs School of Music, which accompanied a Master of Music admission offer in 2024. The London Young Musician jury described his performances as “Beautiful Singing with Impressive Voice,” a testament to both tonal quality and expressive depth.

Artistic Style and Interpretive Approach

As a light lyric tenor, Hou possesses a voice marked by clarity, warmth, and flexibility—qualities that make him especially suited to Mozart, bel canto repertoire, and French lyric roles. His performances are distinguished by sensitivity to phrasing, nuanced text delivery, and emotional authenticity. While firmly rooted in classical tradition, Hou also embraces a contemporary artistic identity that incorporates songwriting and cross-genre creativity.

Contemporary Music and Songwriting

In parallel with his operatic work, Hou is an accomplished singer-songwriter. He released his debut Mandarin pop single 《海棠》 (Begonia) in 2024, followed by 《没人和你说话》 (No One’s Talking to You) in 2025. Both are available on Spotify and NetEase, showcasing his ability to reach audiences beyond the opera stage.

Hou’s songwriting is supported by his instrumental skills—he plays piano, guitar, ukulele, and French horn, and is trained in choral conducting. This versatility informs his compositions and adds depth to his performances.

Collaboration and Conductors

Hou has collaborated with conductors such as Robert Tweten, Mina Kim, and Curtis Serafin. These engagements have strengthened his ensemble skills and adaptability, preparing him for the collaborative demands of professional opera and concert work.

International Outlook and Future Goals

With performances spanning Asia, Europe, and North America, Hou has already built an international profile. His training in multiple languages, familiarity with diverse musical traditions, and ability to perform across genres equip him for a wide range of artistic opportunities.

Looking ahead, Hou aims to expand his operatic repertoire, participate in more international festivals, and further develop his songwriting career. His long-term vision includes bridging classical and popular music audiences, fostering a broader appreciation for vocal artistry.

Conclusion

At just twenty-three, Xiaofeng Hou embodies a rare blend of operatic refinement and contemporary creativity. His conservatory education, mentorship by distinguished artists, award-winning performances, and original compositions reflect a dedication to excellence matched by a curiosity for artistic exploration. Whether portraying a prince in a Mozart opera or performing an original ballad, Hou brings sincerity and artistry that resonate with audiences worldwide. His future promises a career shaped by both tradition and innovation—a voice honoring the past while inspiring the future of vocal performance