The Sullivan Foundation Awards 2021: deadline September 15!

The Sullivan Foundation seeks talented young professional opera singers who are still taking early steps and show promise for significant careers. Sullivan Award winners receive initial prizes of $10,000 and then are eligible for continuing grants to learn new roles, a unique feature of the Foundation's support. More than 1,000 singers have earned Sullivan funding since 1957. Learn more on the Foundation's website.

Applicants must have completed their academic training and should have sung at least one engagement with a known opera company, orchestra, or other organization using full orchestral accompaniment. There is no age limit, but singers should be in the early stages of their solo careers. Application requirements include video samples, an endorsement letter from a music professional, and a contract or letter of intent for a professional solo engagement with full orchestra that opens after the auditions or in the six months prior (after May 13, 2021; due to the pandemic, atypical accompaniment circumstances may be explained for consideration). 

2021 auditions will be held in New York on November 14 and 15. All singers invited for a live audition must be available one of these dates and must provide proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to participate. 

Audition applications are due September 15. There is no fee to apply. The Foundation encourages singers to review the application details and allow sufficient time to request and prepare the supporting materials. Applicants are welcome to send any questions to info@sullivanfoundation.org.      

The Foundation is monitoring CDC guidance, public health advisories, and venue protocols, and will share any updates to plans.