Hello,
Welcome to the latest edition of Opera Round-Up!
As we move into a new season, there is plenty happening across the sector, from upcoming performances to new initiatives, calls for submissions, and other ways to connect and engage with the opera community.
With the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation approaching on September 30, we also take time in this edition to reflect on the importance of continued learning, listening, and action. We’ve shared resources and ways our community can engage with the work of Truth and Reconciliation, both in the days ahead and throughout the year.
We hope you’ll take some time to explore this month’s updates and opportunities.
Happy reading!
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Monthly Newsletter
September 25, 2026
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In this month’s edition:
- AOC News
- Across the Opera Sector
- People
- OPERA America
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Funding
- Calendar of Opera
- Job Listings and Auditions
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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is Wednesday, September 30
As we approach this important day of remembrance and reflection, we’re sharing some meaningful ways to learn, reflect, and take action this week and throughout the year:
- Wear an orange shirt made or sold by an Indigenous artist or business.
- Learn about the residential school system and its ongoing impacts on Indigenous Peoples and communities across Turtle Island.
- Donate to Indigenous-led organizations working to support Indigenous communities, culture, healing, and advocacy.
- Support Indigenous-led artistic creation throughout the year, not only around the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
We also encourage you to explore these resources:
- AOC’s Land Acknowledgment Resource Guide, created by Métis multidisciplinary artist and mezzo-soprano Rebecca Cuddy, includes definitions, pronunciation guides, and land acknowledgments for regions across Canada. The guide is designed to support organizations in approaching land acknowledgments with greater authenticity, accountability, and humility.
- The Orange Shirt Society offers resources on the history and meaning of Orange Shirt Day, as well as ways to learn more and get involved.
In the days ahead, we encourage our community to take time to learn, reflect, and consider how we can carry the work of Truth and Reconciliation forward throughout the year.
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COC Free Concert Series Explores Indigenous Representation in Canadian Opera
When: September 30 at 12 p.m. ET
The Canadian Opera Company’s Free Concert Series presents The Evolution of Female Indigenous Representation in Canadian Opera from 1879 to Present at the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre.
Indigenous Fulbright Scholar and mezzo-soprano Camryn Dewar will be joined by pianist and composer Jesse Plessis for a lecture-recital exploring the evolution of Indigenous female representation in Canadian opera. The presentation will also include a public Q&A. LEARN MORE
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COC Chorus Master Position Named in Honour of Frances & Tim Price
Congratulations to Sandra Horst, whose longtime role with the Canadian Opera Company has been newly named the Frances & Tim Price Chorus Master, recognizing a transformational gift from Frances and Tim Price in support of the COC Chorus.
Sandra has been a vital part of the COC for many years, bringing her artistry and leadership to the company’s acclaimed chorus. AOC is delighted to celebrate this recognition of her work and the continued investment in choral excellence at the COC. READ MORE
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Credit: Gaetz Photography
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Save the Date: OPERA America Salutes 2027
Where: The Plaza Hotel, New York City
When: March 12, 2027
OPERA America Salutes brings together artists, producers and advocates from across the opera sector to celebrate the newest inductees into the Opera Hall of Fame and recipients of the National Opera Trustee Recognition Awards.
The evening will feature cocktails, dinner and performances while recognizing industry leaders and supporting the next generation of opera leaders.
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2026 Bella Music Foundation International Music Competition
The Bella Music Foundation International Music Competition is accepting applications from blind and visually impaired vocalists and musicians worldwide. The competition is open to instrumentalists, vocalists, and composers, with a Classical Division for ages 10–30 and a Jazz Division for ages 15–30. The competition offers USD $10,000 in total cash awards.
First Prize winners will also be invited to perform at the competition’s Finale Concert at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall in New York City on December 6, 2026.
Application Deadline: October 1, 2026
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Submissions Now Open: Opera Sprouts Initiative
Pacific Opera Victoria, in partnership with Vancouver Opera, is accepting submissions for the Opera Sprouts Competition, an initiative for composer/librettist teams interested in creating new opera for young audiences in BC schools.
Three teams will be selected to develop new works for students in Grades 3–6, receiving mentorship and feedback from experienced opera composers, librettists, and artistic and production professionals. The program will culminate in an in-person workshop and public presentation in May 2028, with one team selected to receive a full commission and have their work tour BC schools during the 2028/29 season.
Submission Deadline: November 30, 2026 at midnight PT
In-Person Workshop: May 9–15, 2028 | Vancouver, BC
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Upload your events to our Opera Calendar so the opera community can browse them all in one place. Need help? Contact Trisha!
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To check out the new job listings on our website, or add a job listing click here
To check most recent calls for auditions click here
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