COMPETITION

Standard Rules – Vienna Opera Competition 2026

🎯 Eligibility

  • Open to singers of all nationalities.

  • Applicants must be between 18 and 32 years old as of August 1, 2026.

  • Two video arias are required:

    • First Aria: One operatic aria by a composer from the Classical period or later (no Baroque repertoire).

    • Second Aria: Another operatic aria of your choice (no Baroque repertoire).
      If you wish to be considered for the Mozart Interpretation Prize (€1,000), your second aria must be from a Mozart opera, and you must perform a Mozart aria in the Final Round to remain eligible.

    Videos must be unedited and be recorded with live accompaniment (piano or orchestra).

📝 Application Process

  • A non-refundable application fee of €75 is required.

  • In the application form, singers must:

    • Indicate the two arias they would like to perform in the final round (if selected).

    • State whether they have received previous competition prizes and name the competitions.

    • Upload proof of age (passport, national ID, or driver’s license).

  • Deadline to apply: April 12, 2026
    Extension granted for a limited time.

🎭 Final Round Details – 8 finalists

  • Selected singers will proceed directly to the Final Round, held on August 1, 2026, at the historic Ballsaal Grand Hotel in Vienna.

  • A rehearsal will be held for all finalists on July 31, 2026.

  • Accommodation is provided for all 8 finalists. (From July 30th to August 2, 2026)

  • The Final Round will be broadcast live on the Vienna Opera Competition’s YouTube channel.

  • Finalists may change their repertoire up to July 24, 2026.

🏆 Prizes

  • 1st Prize: €5,000

  • 2nd Prize: €2,500

  • 3rd Prize: €1,000

  • Mozart Interpretation Prize: €1,000

  • Finalist Guarantee: All finalists who do not win a main prize will receive €500.

📅 Key Dates Overview

  • Application Deadline: April 12, 2026

  • Finalist Notification: April 30, 2026

  • Repertoire Change Deadline: July 24, 2026

  • Rehearsal in Vienna: July 31, 2026

  • Final Round & Concert: August 1, 2026

📄 Additional Notes

  • The jury’s decisions are final and not subject to appeal.

  • By applying, participants agree to the use of their image and recordings for promotional purposes.

  • Selected finalists must be present in Vienna to receive prizes or recognition.