Arts & Entertainment

Deadline Looms for Verismo Opera Vocal Competition

Singers are invited to submit their applications to Bergen County’s New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera Annual International Vocal Competition.  

Male and female vocalists of all ages around the globe are invited to apply now to the competition by the application deadline of November 1, according to Artistic Director Lucine Amara. The vocal competition is celebrating more than two decades of supporting and cultivating the careers of singers around the world.

The nonprofit opera company provides opportunities for artists to learn and perform in a professional environment with a full orchestra. Last year’s first prize winner, Brian B. Carter, was featured as Gianni Schicchi in the company’s April 2013 production.

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The preliminary rounds will be held throughout November in New York City and finals will take place in January 2014.

All applicants are required to send an MP3 file electronically or a CD containing at least three arias via postal mail to P.O. Box 3024, Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024-9024 USA. Applicants will be notified if they are accepted into the competition. Applications are available to download at the organization’s web site www.verismopera.org. The registration fee is $85 for applications received by the deadline.

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The company offers up and coming performing artists the training to attain a successful operatic career.  Several singers, notably Richard Hobson, Frank Poretta, Emmanuel di Villarosa, James Valenti and Irina Rindzuner of the Metropolitan Opera, started their road to success by performing in Verismo Opera’s productions, according to a release from Verismo.

A professional accompanist will be provided to all participants at preliminaries and final auditions.  Finalists will receive feedback; free extensive coaching on language, style and presentation; and be given the opportunity to perform in Verismo Opera's fully staged upcoming productions. Winners will receive cash awards—$2,000 first prize, $1,000 second prize and $500 third prize. 

For more information, contact info@verismopera.org or call 201-886-0561.


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