RUMBOLD VOCAL PRIZE
APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 NOW OPEN!
We created the Rumbold Vocal Prize to provide meaningful opportunities and assistance to emerging Canadian classical vocalists. The prizes and the masterclass 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.
A distinguished panel. A week of artistic growth. A stage set for Canada’s finest emerging opera singers.
The Rumbold Vocal Prize is more than a competition – it is a celebration of extraordinary talent, dedication, and artistry. Over the course of a week-long residency, finalists will receive mentorship from industry leaders, intensive coaching, and the opportunity to refine their craft before stepping into the spotlight for the Grand Finale Concert.
With prestigious prizes and invaluable career development opportunities, this is a defining moment for Canada’s next generation of opera stars!
Watch our video from last year’s Rumbold Vocal Prize and hear from Arnold Rumbold, Artistic Director Joel Ivany, Master Clinician Wendy Nielsen, and each of the 2024 finalists as they reflect on what makes this program unique and why it matters.
HOW TO APPLY
Round 1: Prescreen
Application Deadline: 11:59 MST, July 31, 2025
Materials needed:
Two video links of two separate operatic arias.
CV
Headshot
Names and contact information for 2 references
Round 2: Live Auditions
If selected for a live audition, you’ll be notified by August 11, 2025. Please bring a list of 3-5 arias you could present, in no fewer than 2 languages.
LIVE AUDITION LOCATIONS & DATES
Toronto: September 5 & 6, 2025
Montreal: September 8, 2025
Edmonton: September 12, 2025
Vancouver: September 13, 2025
FINALIST WEEK & GRAND FINALE
Residency Dates: November 15 – 22, 2025
Competition Night: November 21, 2025
PRIZES & OPPORTUNITIES
1st Place: $12,000
2nd Place: $8,000
3rd & 4th Place: $5,000
Audience Choice Award: $1,000
And the Yukon Song Tour Prize, generously sponsored by the Yukon Arts Centre.