SAS Performing Arts 6th Annual Vocal Competition

Part of SAS Performing Arts Company and Studios mission is to focus on recognizing and creating opportunities for emerging artists and helping to support them to the next level of artistic development.

To achieve that, we have instituted a competition for emerging artists. Since our first competition in 2020, SAS has awarded over $25,000 to emerging artists to assist them in their career development. Past winners have gone on to various young artist programs and make their debuts with major companies across Europe and the United States including The Metropolitan Opera, Tulsa Opera, Florida Grand Opera, The English National Opera, and Staatsoper Berlin.

Dates: Held Live in New York City

Semifinals: November 21, 2025

Finals: November 23, 2025

Competition Awards

1st Prize: $3,000 sponsored by Charles and Edith Upton

2nd Prize: $1,500 sponsored by the Friends of SAS Performing Arts Club

3rd Prize: $1000 - The Luana DeVol Award for Dramatic Voices

Classical Cross Over Award: $250 - The Frank Surdi Memorial Award

The LC Vaughn Sankofa Memorial Award for Emerging African American Artists - $150.00

Incentive Grants: $100 each

ELIGIBILITY

The competition is open to all performers who desire a career in opera and classical crossover..

Repertoire once submitted cannot be changed.

Submitted materials cannot be returned.

Submission of this application does not guarantee an audition.

Eligible participants will be notified of the date, time and location of the audition by email.

An accompanist will be provided at no cost.

$40.00 non-refundable fee required to apply.

SAS Performing Arts Company and Studios, Inc. cannot assume any responsibility for expenses incurred during any portion of the competition.

The performer's challenge: present to the judges a proper technique, an understanding of the text and style of the selection through their understanding of the music and lyrics.

Classical crossover is a genre that hovers between classical and popular music, and is usually targeted at fans of both types of music. In the most common type of crossover, classically trained performers (often operatic superstars) sing the Great American Songbook, show tunes, or holiday songs. These submissions must be in English.

Age Requirement 18+