
What we bring
A catalyst for forward movement, diversification, and growth in the classical music industry, Shawn Marie Jeffery is an inspiring, collaborative industry leader with 35 years of experience in the field, who furthers and sustains the operatic art form and its artists. As an artist advocate and liaison between talent and producers, Shawn leverages long-standing, trust based relationships to build structural, sustainable pathways to success.
In 2023 Shawn joined the team at UIA Talent Agency as their Vice President of Classical and Creatives, having been an integral part of the ADA Artist Management team since 2005. She brought with her a wide array of performance, directorial, and administrative experience. Her work as an artist advocate has taken her to companies throughout the US. Deeply dedicated to providing the next generation of artists with the tools to succeed, she often speaks with emerging artists sharing her insight on business and artistic trends within the industry in lecture and masterclass settings. Shawn recently added the title of Executive Producer to her skillset, bringing several regional opera companies together to produce the World Premieres of The Trial of Susan B. Anthony, and most recently Unknown, a work which she also conceived, to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.
In the fall of 2024 Shawn joined the faculty of the Boston Conservatory, the first artist manager to do so in the history of the esteemed institution. Shawn is known for her openness in communication. Industry leaders and artists alike appreciate her candor, compassion, and integrity.
Experience into Action
Speaker and Adjudicator
Shawn has presented at the Atlanta Opera, Chautauqua Opera, Lyric Opera of Kansas City, Utah Opera, Pensacola Opera, Bard Summerscape, The Berkshire Festival, Mannes School of Music, Eastman School of Music, New England Conservatory, Seagle Music Colony, Spotlight on Opera, and others. She has served as a judge previously for the Opera Birmingham Vocal Competition, as well as for Opera Connecticut’s American Opera Idol, and the AMICI Vocal Competition, as a panelist for feedback auditions at the Classical Singer Convention and OPERA America’s Career Blueprints for Singers, and a moderator and panelist at OPERA America and National Opera Asscociation conferences.
Producer and Project Manager
An experienced producer and project manager, Shawn's work brings together artists, institutions, presenters, and creative teams to develop and realize ambitious projects from concept through presentation.
The Trial of Susan B. Anthony
Composer: Steven Mark Kohn
Digital Premiere: October 26, 2020
Partnering Organizations: Minnesota Opera, San Diego Opera, Austin Opera, Opera Colorado, The Berkshire Festival
Shawn Marie Jeffery: Producer/Director
Unknown
Composer: Shawn Okpebholo
Librettist: Marcus Amaker
Commissioned by: UrbanArias
Digital premiere: November 11, 2021
Partnering Organizations: Minnesota Opera, Wolf Trap Foundation of the Performing Arts,, The Dallas Opera, Opera Colorado, Opera Birmingham
Shawn Marie Jeffery: Concept/Executive Producer
North American Indigenous Songbook
Curated by: Timothy Long
Premiere: November 2024, National Sawdust
Upcoming presentations: Pearlman Arts Center, NYC; Eastman Presents; Pike Opera, Milford, PA
Shawn Marie Jeffery: Project Manager
Creative Consultant and Mentor
Building Relationships
As a creative consultant and mentor helping artists and arts organizations turn ideas into meaningful, sustainable opportunities, Shawn offers thoughtful guidance on artistic development, career strategy, project planning, and navigating the complexities of the industry. Shawn works collaboratively with artists, emerging leaders, and institutions to identify possibilities, strengthen creative vision, and develop practical pathways forward. Her mentorship is grounded in candor, encouragement, and a deep understanding of the realities of an evolving arts landscape. She is committed to empowering others to make informed decisions and build purposeful careers.
