2027 Carolyn Bailey Argento Vocal Competition

About this program

The National Opera Association’s 2027 Carolyn Bailey Argento Vocal Competition offers more than $15,000 in cash prizes and awards, plus a potential Carolyn Bailey Argento Fellowship worth up to $50,000 annually for graduate study in vocal performance. Preliminary and semifinal rounds are evaluated through audio recordings, with live finals held in Minneapolis on January 9, 2027; applications are due October 1, 2026. The Scholarship Division is open to singers ages 18–24 and the Artist Division to singers ages 25–40, with no citizenship or residency restrictions. Applicants must submit contrasting opera repertoire, two recent audio recordings, proof of age, a headshot, and a nonrefundable entry fee of $25 or $50, depending on division.