The Wood Operatic Advancement Grant Guidelines and Application

The Wood Advancement Grant is designed to give additional financial support to former prize winners of the Donald W. Wood, Jr. Vocal Competition. Grantees must be pursuing a career as a classical vocalist, and the grant funds are intended to help them with their studies. Grants are awarded based on career potential, progress in their studies, and needs. Potential grantees may apply as often as they wish but may win an award no more than once every two years.

All potential grantees must submit the following to Dr. Melvin (submission form below):
  • A recent photograph
  • A short bio
  • A recording (audio or video) made in the past 12 months to show current vocal abilities.
  • Statement of intent for the use of funds
Deadline Dates
  • The Fall/Winter W.O.A.G. application date is from August 4, 2023, until midnight on November 6, 2023.
  • The winner will be announced via New Orleans Opera Website & the Donald W. Wood, Sr. Vocal Competition Facebook page on December 4, 2023.
  • The Spring/Summer W.O.A.G. application date is from January 8, 2024, through midnight on April 8, 2024.
  • The winner will be announced via New Orleans Opera Website & the Donald W. Wood, Sr. Vocal Competition Facebook page on April 22, 2024.

Wood Grant Submission Form

Click or drag a file to this area to upload.
Click or drag a file to this area to upload.
For more information, please contact

Dr. Tara A. Melvin
email: tmelvin@neworleansopera.org
(504) 529-2278 ext. 235