Victorian Opera’s Emerging Artist Opera Prize

Victorian Opera’s Emerging Artist Opera Prize is awarded to assist in developing operatic careers through specialised coaching, mentoring and performance. The Opera Prize is a salaried position to work in residence with Victorian Opera as a part of the performing company. This will include opportunities to perform in productions and recitals and receive private coaching from Victorian Opera’s music staff.

Victorian Opera is now accepting video applications for the 2026 Emerging Artist Opera Prize.

Who should apply?

* Artists with less than 10 years professional experience may apply for the Opera Prize.

* Submissions are welcome from people who have auditioned for the Opera Prize less than two times previously. Past recipients of the prize are not eligible.

* The 2026 Opera Prize recipient(s) must be able to base themselves in Melbourne for the duration of the contract period.

* Victorian Opera seeks to work with the very best talent available. We value

diversity, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, cultural background and ethnicity, and encourage all to apply.

How to apply

* Applications are now open and will close end of day on Friday 22 August 2025.

* Please submit a single document containing the following information:

- Current curriculum vitae outlining your contact information, studies, and

any performance experience. Please provide details around whether the

performance history was of a professional nature or through another

avenue.

- A cover letter outlining why you should be considered for the program.

- Contact details of three referees.

- Links to two videos of arias recorded within the past 6 months. Arias must

be in two different languages and no longer than 3 minutes in length.

- Please list your full name in the application file name.

* Submit your document via the Dropbox link on website.

Please note, we will only be offering in-person auditions to select applicants. If after viewing the submissions, the panel would like to meet in person with a candidate, a suitable time will be arranged for a live audition and panel discussion.

Go to website for more info.