Opera Birmingham Vocal Competition

Opera Birmingham's annual Vocal Competition showcases emerging operatic singers from across the United States. It is open to singers ages 21-35 (as of the February finals) who are permanent residents of the U.S. and have fewer than two completed AGMA contracts as soloists; previous first-prize winners may not re-enter.

Applicants apply online through YAP Tracker with a resume, headshot, proof of age, recordings of two arias with piano accompaniment, and a list of five contest arias in varied languages including at least one in English. Ten finalists perform in a finals concert in Birmingham, Alabama.

First prize is $3,500 plus an invitation to appear in a future Opera Birmingham production; additional prizes of $2,500, $2,000, $1,500, and $1,000 are awarded, plus a $1,000 audience favorite prize. Applications for the 2026 competition were due December 7, 2025.