EMPOWERING EMERGING CANADIAN ARTISTS FOR CAREER DEVELOPMENT 
 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: CLOSED

RESIDENCY DATES: NOVEMBER 3RD - 9TH 2024

RUMBOLD VOCAL PRIZE CONCERT: NOVEMBER 8TH 2024


Step into the spotlight with Edmonton Opera as we launch the 3rd annual Rumbold Vocal Prize, made possible by the generous support of Grace and Arnold Rumbold.

This esteemed competition celebrates emerging professional opera singers across Canada, offering them a platform to showcase their talent and elevate their careers in the opera world. In it’s inaugural year, we were overwhelmed by the incredible response, receiving 147 applicants from passionate artists nationwide.

The overwhelming response to our inaugural Rumbold Vocal Prize shows there is a need for this type of prize in our sector. We are delighted to be offering this annual prize to support emerging Canadian artists who are doing amazing things around the world. — Joel Ivany, Artistic Director

Finalists of the Rumbold Vocal Prize embark on a week-long immersive professional development experience with the Edmonton Opera. Under the guidance of a master clinician and industry professionals, finalists refine their skills in singing, performance, auditioning, and more. Each finalist also receives a substantial cash prize, thanks to the generous contribution from the Rumbold family.

Join us in nurturing the next generation of opera stars and supporting their artistic journey!


Introducing the Master Clinician for 2024/25 Rumbold Vocal Prize

JUDITH FORST, O.C., O.B.C. 
MEZZO-SOPRANO:  

Canadian mezzo-soprano Judith Forst has sung with major opera companies throughout North America and Europe, including over 250 performances in twenty years with the New York Metropolitan Opera. European engagements have included performances in Italy, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands.  She made her debut at Italy’s La Scala in 2006 singing KABANICHKA in Janacek’s Kata Kabanova. 

Ms Forst is a member of the Order of Canada and of the Order of British Columbia, and is a recipient of Canada’s prestigious RUBY AWARD marking her distinguished worldwide career in opera.  

We created the Rumbold Vocal Prize to provide meaningful opportunities and assistance to emerging Canadian classical vocalists. The prizes and the Master Class opportunity are intended to help them as they work toward professional operatic careers in leading roles. We were thrilled to see 147 applications in the first year that truly showcased the talent and passion within Canada’s vibrant musical community. Nurturing emerging operatic talent has been an important mission for our family, and we are looking forward to seeing this award continue to grow and support artists by providing a platform to showcase their abilities and gain invaluable experience.

– Grace and Arnold Rumbold, Edmonton Opera’s dedicated supporters and champions.