New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera Accepting Applications for Annual International Vocal Competition

New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera Artistic Director Lucine Amara invites vocalists of all ages around the globe to apply now to the New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera Annual International Vocal Competition.

The nonprofit opera company is recognized for providing opportunities for artists to learn and perform in a professional environment with a full orchestra. Last year's first prize winner, New Jersey resident Brian B. Carter, was featured as Gianni Schicchi in the company's April 2013 production.

The preliminary rounds will be held on Mondays, November 4, 11, and 18, 2013 from 5 to 9 p.m.; Wednesdays, November 6 and 13, 2013 from 5 to 9 p.m.; Friday, November 8, 2013 from 5 to 9 p.m.; and Saturdays, November 9 and 16, 2013 from 2 to 6 p.m. The preliminaries will be held in New York City at The Epic Building, 5th Floor Studio, 2067 Broadway (between 71st and 72nd Streets). Finals will take place in January 2014.

All applicants are required to send an MP3 file or CD containing at least three arias, and will be notified if they are accepted into the competition. Applications may be downloaded athttp://www.verismopera.org/vocalcomp.html. The registration fee is $85 for applications received before November 1.

A professional accompanist will be provided to all participants at preliminaries and final auditions. Finalists will receive feedback; extensive free coaching on language, style and presentation; and be given the opportunity to perform in Verismo Opera's full staged upcoming productions. Winners will receive cash awards totaling $3,500 ($2,000 first prize, $1,000 second prize and $500 third prize). For further information, contact info@verismopera.org or call (201) 886-0561.