The  "Future of Opera Vocal Competition" organized by Utah Valley Operafest, and supported by the UVU Department of Music, is dedicated to identifying, training, and showcasing classical vocal talents in high school-aged singers. This event offers participants the chance to earn cash prizes, vocal scholarships, training, and invaluable performance opportunities. Mark your calendars for this year's competition, scheduled for April 24, 2025 at Utah Valley University!

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 Eligibility: 

The competition is open to all singers aged 14-19 (as of June 1, 2025).  An extensive background in classical singing is not necessary, as this would be fairly rare in a singer of this age group. We are searching for individuals with potential in the field. Applicants might include those who have prepared for the state Solo and Ensemble Competition, choral or musical theater singers, or sterling scholar applicants. Participants may include those who have already studied voice privately, or those brand new who show an interest. We want to recognize and assist those with raw talent and showcase them in multiple performing opportunities!

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Requirements:

Singers should prepare two classical art songs or opera arias. One selection must be in a foreign language. If necessary, one selection may be a classical or golden-age musical theater song sung in a classical manner. Contemporary songs and styles such as belt, pop, rock, etc. are not the right fit for this competition. 

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Competition details:

Each singer will be assigned a time slot by email on April 20th. Singers may invite guests into the room during their audition, but may not stay in the room for other auditions . Singers should dress in semi-formal performance attire (nice dresses and suits, but gowns and tuxedos are not necessary).  A professional pianist will be provided, however singers may also bring their own.  Winners will be announced on this page and by email on the evening of April 24th. 

 

Prizes :

Cash awards up to $1,000

Scholarships to UVU- up to full-tuition

Scholarships to participate in Utah Valley Operafest

Public performance with orchestra

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Rules:

Winners will be notified on the date the competition, but awards will be presented in July at the orchestra concert.

 

*First prize winners are required to perform at winner's concert on July 31, 2025. In the event that a winner is unable to appear at the concert, the award will be given to the next highest ranked singer. 

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Questions? Contact us: utahvalleyoperafest@gmail.com​​

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Past Winners

After an amazing night of singing, the judges compared their scores and found an extremely tight race! We want to thank all of our applicants, who were well-prepared and sang beautifully! We are also SO grateful for the many choral directors and voice teachers who recommended their students to us! The awards are as follows:

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First prize, male voice: Joseph Blomberg, senior from Provo High School

First prize, female voice: Sariah Holmes, senior from Timpview High School

Second prize (overall): Benjamin Brown, senior from Lone Peak High School

Third prize (overall): Lindsey Uhl, senior from Provo High School

Honorable mention awards: 

Hannah Rigby, Wasatch High School

Kaitlyn Kingston, Provo High School

Meghan Delate, Timpview High School

Sadie Cox, Box Elder High School

Sariah Reed, Timpview High School

Emma Zanetti, Rock Springs High School

Emma Matthews, Payson High School 

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