Baritone. Dominic Lim
A Rising Baritone of Exceptional Versatility
Seohyun ‘Dominic’ Lim, a gifted baritone, is rapidly establishing himself as a dynamic presence in the world of opera. Known for his velvety tone, emotional depth, and commanding stage presence, Mr. Lim's artistry has captivated audiences in diverse roles spanning the lyric and dramatic baritone repertoire. With a solid foundation in music and a clear passion for storytelling through song, Mr. Lim's journey reflects an unwavering dedication to his craft and a promising future in the operatic realm.
A native of South Korea, Mr. Lim began his musical journey at the University of Seoul, earning his Bachelor of Music degree. He further honed his skills and deepened his artistry by completing a Master of Music degree, under the guidance and support of soprano Shigemi Matsumoto at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), where he emerged as one of the top talents in their celebrated opera program. His academic excellence was recognized with the "Best Student in Opera" award at CSUN, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the field.
Opera Stage: Bringing Characters to Life
Dominic Lim has demonstrated remarkable versatility on stage, seamlessly transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles. While at CSUN, his portrayal of iconic characters highlighted both his vocal and dramatic prowess. From the charming and playful ‘Papageno’ in Mozart's Die Zauberflöte to the dignified ‘Marquis de la Force’ in Poulenc's Les Dialogues des Carmélites, Mr. Lim has shown his ability to embody a wide array of personas.
His characters, ‘Lucas’ in L'Ivrogne Corrigé by Gluck and ‘Coline’ in Puccini's La Bohème revealed his skill in both baroque and romantic repertoire, while his work as ‘Sprecher’ in Die Zauberflöte showcased his authoritative and resonant vocal delivery. These roles, coupled with his collaborations as a bass soloist in Mozart's Requiem, Fauré's Requiem, and Handel's Messiah, have demonstrated Mr. Lim's technical mastery and interpretative depth.
Expanding Horizons Beyond Academia
Outside the academic setting, Mr. Lim continues to thrive as a sought-after performer with professional opera companies and festivals. He brought depth and nuance to the role of ‘Frère Laurent’ in Gounod's Roméo et Juliette and portrayed ‘Yamadori’ and ‘il Commissario’ in Puccini's Madama Butterfly with Mission Opera. With Landmark Opera, his comedic timing and vocal precision shone as ‘Maestro Spinelloccio’ and ‘Amantio di Nicolao’ in Puccini's Gianni Schicchi.
In 2024, Mr. Lim's portrayal of ‘Leporello’ in Mozart's Don Giovanni at the Varna International Music Academy (VIMA) in South Carolina, under the baton of Metropolitan Opera conductor Gregory Buchalter, marked a significant milestone in his career. This role not only highlighted his flair for dramatic interpretation but also solidified his growing reputation as an exceptional performer on the international stage.
A Celebrated Artist with Bright Prospects
Dominic Lim's accomplishments extend beyond the stage. He has received accolades such as a Certificate of Recognition from the California Assembly for his dedication to the Korean community and was selected as a performer in the prestigious SMC Aria Competition. These honors underscore his ability to connect with diverse audiences and make meaningful contributions to the cultural fabric of his community.
As Mr. Lim continues to expand his repertoire and refine his artistry, his career trajectory promises even greater achievements. His rich, expressive voice, coupled with his compelling stage presence and deep understanding of operatic traditions, positions him as a rising star in the opera world.
Dominic Lim's journey is a testament to his passion for music and his relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether breathing life into beloved operatic roles or collaborating with ensembles on sacred works, Mr. Lim embodies the transformative power of music and remains a baritone to watch in the years to come.