Held every two years, this competition helps young opera singers from around the world.
After the interruption caused by the Covid period, the competition resumed with over 70 participants, mainly from South Korea and China.
Guest of honor: soprano Selene Zanetti. The event also featured a performance by the Academy Pavia dance company, directed by Marilina Piemontese.
The competition has welcomed participants from Europe, Asia, and the Americas, confirming its role as a key event for emerging opera singers.
Many finalists and winners later built careers in major opera houses worldwide.
The competition includes selection rounds at Circolo Pavia Lirica and a final round at Teatro Fraschini in Pavia.
The first edition was held in 1976, and since then the competition has taken place every two years, welcoming singers from all over the world. Candidates up to the age of 35 are evaluated by a jury made up of highly respected professionals, including former renowned singers, music directors, critics, and artistic agents.
In the months before each edition, the official call is published and applications open, allowing candidates to submit their details and selected repertoire.
Forooz Razavi Soprano (Iran 🇮🇷)
Hyun Seo Park (South Korea 🇰🇷)
Shuyang Ma (China 🇨🇳)
Viola Nelfi (Italy 🇮🇹)
President of the Jury
Artistic Director of La Spezia Lirica and Sarzana Lirica
Jury Member
Former artistic director of Arena di Verona, Teatro Regio di Torino, Teatro Bellini di Catania, and Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Jury Member
Internationally acclaimed baritone
Jury Member
President, Musica Milano
Jury Member
President of the Korean Musicians Association in Italy
Jury Member
Founder of the opera agency AlioOpera
The competition welcomed opera singers of all voice types and nationalities, born after January 1, 1990, and at least 18 years old by November 5, 2025.
The selection rounds took place on November 5, 6, and 7, 2025 at Circolo Pavia Lirica, behind closed doors and in the presence of the jury.
The semi-final took place on November 8 at the Circolo. The final was held on November 9 at Teatro Fraschini in Pavia, open to the public.
Accompanist pianist: Svetlana Sayad
