Miami University Music Alumni Spotlight: Maximillian Jansen
Jansen’s most recent success includes securing first place and the Robert E. Ludwig Award
Most recently, Max secured First Place and the Robert E. Ludwig Award at the 48th Lyndon Woodside Oratorio-Solo Competition, a prestigious national contest that celebrates excellence in oratorio performance. Alongside the honor came a $7,000 cash prize and the distinction of joining the ranks of past winners who have made a mark in the world of classical vocal performance.
A Foundation Built at Miami
Jansen’s time at Miami University laid the groundwork for his artistic and professional identity. “I was very lucky to have a voice teacher and many other professors in the music department who encouraged me to go out and find the music that spoke to me,” he recalls. “While I learned the standard repertoire, my professors challenged me to go deeper—to seek out diverse voices and stories in music.”
Beyond the practice room, Jansen says the liberal arts core played a key role in shaping his versatility. “It taught me to be a critical thinker, reader, and writer—skills that aren’t always emphasized in a performer’s training, but are absolutely vital,” he said.
Lessons that Last
Among his most formative moments at Miami was a simple but powerful lesson in professionalism from Professor Jeremy Jones during a rehearsal. “I showed up a few minutes late, thinking things wouldn't start right on time,” Jansen remembers. “Dr. Jones told me, ‘If you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late. If you're late, you're fired.’ I’ve lived by that ever since.”
Performing, Growing, Leading
While at Miami, Jansen had the chance to take on leading roles in multiple operatic and musical theatre productions, an opportunity he doesn’t take lightly. “That early stage experience gave me the confidence to take artistic risks,” he said. “I started honing my skills as both an actor and singer from the start. Working with conductors, directors, and choreographers at that level taught me how to collaborate—an essential skill in this profession.”
His work in chamber choral ensembles, too, contributed to his development as a strong ensemble singer and reliable colleague. “That’s where I really learned how to listen—how to adapt, how to blend—and how to be a professional even as a student.”
Beyond the High Dive
After graduating, Jansen didn’t jump straight into a graduate program—he entered the professional world, uncertain but determined. “It felt like stepping off a high dive without knowing if there was water in the pool below,” he admitted. “But what Miami gave me was the mindset to keep moving forward. My professors taught me that if I put in the work, opportunities would come. This career is a marathon, not a sprint.”
Advice for Aspiring Musicians
For current and prospective students pursuing a performance career, Jansen offers heartfelt guidance: “Find the music that feels like the truest expression of your voice. Don’t just chase what’s popular or what someone else tells you to sing. This career is hard—it has to be rooted in love and authenticity. That’s what makes your voice unique.”
Favorite Miami Moments
Reflecting on his time at Miami, Jansen lights up when recalling the role of Albert Herring, a character that remains one of his favorites to perform. “I’m so grateful to have learned that role at a young age,” he said. Another standout memory? Performing in a concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City. “Exploring the city with my friends and singing on that iconic stage was unforgettable.”
And, of course, there are the simple joys. “No Miami memory is complete without Bagel and Deli. I still dream about that Crunch ‘n Munch.”
