Repertoire Requirements 

Three song selections: 

• One song or aria in French, German, Italian, or any language other than English.
  • The selection may not be musical theater. 
• One art song in any language other than English. 
• One art song or a legit musical theater piece in English.
  • “Legit Musical Theatre refers to musicals and songs that require a more traditional and classically trained vocal style to perform.” ~stagecoach.co.uk
• All submissions must be performed from memory.  

Submission Requirements 

• All submissions must be audio and video recordings.  
• Submissions should be provided via YouTube links.
  • Do not include your name or identifying information in the title of the video or link. 
  • There should be one link per submission. Three links in total. 
  • Make sure links are working before submission. 

• Participants should announce the title, work (if applicable), and composer of each selection at the start of the video.
  • Example: Today I will be performing (Title) from (Work) by (Composer) 
  • Please do not announce your name.  

• Videos should be recorded in portrait layout (not landscape). 
• Record your selections with live piano accompaniment OR pre-recorded piano accompaniment.
  • Accompaniment must be piano only.
    • Synthesized orchestras and pre-recorded live performances (recitals, concerts, and other competitions) are not permitted.   

• Individual selections cannot be edited in any way.
  • Do not make cuts in your videos. 
  • Do not use special effects (dissolves, fades, or wipes, etc.)  

• Please see “Recording Tips” for more information on recording your selections.  
   

Judging Criteria  

• Tone Production 
  • Resonance and timbre appropriate to the style, clarity of onsets and offsets, etc.  
• Technique
  • The degree to which the performer has acquired control of the voice (appropriate to age) 
• Diction
  • Accurate pronunciation and effective articulation  
• Intonation
  • Tuning is accurate throughout range 
• Interpretation 
  • Thorough and demonstrated understanding of the text 
• Phrasing  
  • Dynamic flexibility as appropriate to the style as well as composer intent (music markings).  
• Accuracy
  • Pitches and rhythms performed precisely.  
     

Recording Tips 

• Use a fixed camera shot.
  • Consider using a tripod to hold your phone/camera. 
• Make sure to position your phone/camera to capture as much of your body as possible while still being able to make out facial expressions.
  • Do a test run, watch the video back, and adjust as necessary. 
• Make sure the image is in focus. 
• If you are using a pre-recorded track, make sure we are able to hear your voice clearly over the recording.
  • Do a test run, watch the video back, and adjust the recording volume as necessary.  
• If possible, practice your piece in the space you plan to record. Record your practice session and check for additional sound and lighting issues.
  • Sound – Make sure acoustics in the room are suitable for a recording 
  • Lighting – Make sure the room is well lit. Judges should be able to see your face clearly. Avoid glares and overexposure. 

How to Submit 

• Complete and submit the application found on the New Orleans Opera Association website here.
• Submissions are due no later than November 6, 2023 
• E-mail your video links to tmelvin@neworleansopera.org by 11:59 PM on November 6, 2023.
  • All submissions should be in the form of YouTube links.  
  • List your name only in the subject line of your e-mail. 
  • In the body of the e-mail include:
    • The three separate links 
    • The song/aria title, work (when applicable), and composer for each link
• Please email tmelvin@neworleansopera.org or woodcompetition@neworleansopera.org with any questions regarding your submission.