news & events

  • April 21st 2013 @ 3 p.m.

    A DOUBLE BILL — Ruggero Leoncavallo I PAGLIACCI

    Giacomo Puccini's GIANNI SCHICCHI

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  • Vocal Competition
    2013 — 2014

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2012 NJAVO Vocal Competition Results

Congratulations to the winners of the 2012 Verismo Opera Vocal Competition! First prize went to New York baritone David Pershall. Second prize was awarded to California mezzo soprano Renee Rapier, and third went to New York tenor Lawrence Bianco.

Last year's first prize winner, New Jersey resident Brian B. Carter, is featured as Gianni Schicchi in our April 21st production.

25th Annual NJAVO Vocal Competition

October 2013/January 2014

Sign up here for Verismo Opera's 25th Annual Vocal Competition. Preliminary rounds will be held on

  • Mondays, November 4, 11, 18, 2013 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Wednesdays, November 6, 13, 2013 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Friday, November 8, 2013 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Saturdays, November 9, and 16, 2013 from 2:00 PM to to 6:00 PM
Finals will take place in the second or third week of January 2014, date TBA.

The registration fee is

  • $55 for applications received before June 1, 2013
  • $75 for applications received before September 1, 2013
  • $85 for applications received before November 1, 2013
All applicants will be required to send an MP3 file or CD containing at least three arias and will be notified if they are accepted into the competition.

You are now able to submit your application and fee online using Google Checkout!

The preliminary competition will be held in New York City at:

The Epic Building
5th Floor Studio
2067 Broadway (between 71 & 72nd Streets)
NY, NY 10023

The numbers 1, 2, and 3 subway trains serve 72nd Street & Broadway.

A professional accompanist will be provided to all participants at preliminary and final auditions. Winners will receive cash awards totaling $3,500:

  • $2,000 First Prize
  • $1,000 Second Prize
  • $500 Third Prize

In addition, all finalists will receive extensive personal coaching on language, style, and presentation, and will be given the opportunity to perform in Verismo Opera's fully staged upcoming productions.

This non-profit organization provides a unique opportunity for artists to learn and perform in a professional environment with full orchestra.

Participation is limited - apply today!