From September 27 to October 5, 2024, the 57th International Vocal Competition 's-Hertogenbosch will focus on opera and oratorio. The competition will be held in the new Theater aan de Parade in 's-Hertogenbosch. From December 1 it is possible for young singers to apply.
Preliminary selections are organized in Amsterdam and 's-Hertogenbosch. Pre-selections will also take place in several places around the world, including Lódz (Poland), London, Berlin, Lisbon, New York, Vienna and China. There is also the possibility for singers to audition via YouTube.
The total prize money is € 44,000. In addition to the Grand Prix of €15,000, there is also the Wagner Prize of €5,000, offered by the Wagner Society, and there is a Young Talent Prize for singers under the age of 25. There are also several engagement prizes to be won. The competition offers competition participants master classes, jury feedback, reimbursement of travel expenses and accommodation with host families.
The international jury includes soprano Roberta Alexander, countertenor Michael Chance, Rosemary Joshua (soprano - head of The National Opera Studio), Pål Moe (International casting consultant), Susanne Schmidt (casting director Flanders Opera), Karen Stone (director Opera Europa) and Monique Wagemakers (stage director). During the Grand Finale on Oct. 5, 2024, the singers will be accompanied by the PhilZuid under the direction of conductor David Parry.
The IVC has been in existence since 1954. it is the sole international classical vocal competition in the Netherlands that involves opera and oratorio, as well as art song for singer-pianist duos. Much attention paid to 20th century and contemporary music.
The festive finale in 2024 will mark its 70th anniversary. "Winning 's-Hertogenbosch" is a household name in the international world of singing, the IVC opens doors for young classical singing talent. Over the years, the IVC has proved to be a springboard to the world stages for big names such as: Elly Ameling, Measha Brueggergosman, Sarah Connolly, Viorica Cortez, Illeana Cotrubas, Linda Finnie, Ilse Eerens, Thomas Hampson, Robert Holl, Sophie Koch, Nadine Koutcher, Petra Lang, Claron McFadden, Yvonne Minton, Nelly Miricioiu, Jard van Nes, Jevgeni Nesterenko, Adrianne Pieczonka, Lenneke Ruiten and Pretty Yende. Prize winners from the most recent years include Daniela Köhler, Nadine Koutcher, Yajie Zhang, Josh Lovell, Andrei Danilov.
The IVC proudly carries its 'Triple D Status': Discover, Develop and Deliver. Discover during the competition, develop through masterclasses, training weeks, courses and summer schools and deliver the singers to the market and its decision makers.
The IVC is a tough competition with a human touch, most aware of the pressures that young singers experience and strive to give every competitor – also the ones that do not win – a worthwhile experience that serves as an encouragement for the future. The IVC is an open community, a meeting place for all who work in and around opera, oratorio and Lied. The IVC also functions as a recourse center for young singers giving advice on problems they may encounter as well career counselling.