New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera Accepting Applications for International Vocal Competition; Deadline Set for 11/1

New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera Artistic Director Lucine Amara reminds vocalists of all ages around the globe to apply now to the New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera Annual International Vocal Competition. Applications must be receive by November 1, 2013.

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 at http://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.

The New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera (Verismo Opera) has been a part of the New Jersey music scene since 1989. Verismo Opera, a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization, is a grand, professional opera company led by Artistic Director and Met Opera luminary Lucine Amara. The organization provides performing opportunities for young musicians and artists and sponsors an annual vocal competition held in November with finals generally conducted in Carnegie Hall's Weill Hall, drawing artists from all over the United States, Canada, and Europe. The company also organizes opera workshops and concerts and offers affordable, highly professional operatic productions.

For more information about Verismo Opera, visit its web site, www.verismopera.org, follow the company on Facebook at http://bit.ly/9JXTP8 or Twitter @NJVerismoOpera, or call (201) 886-0561.

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