Philadelphia’s Academy of Vocal Arts (AVA) will open its fall season with two standout events: the annual Giargiari Bel Canto Competition and a new production of Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro. Together, they highlight AVA’s tradition of training world-class singers while giving audiences the chance to experience unforgettable performances.
Giargiari Bel Canto Competition
The season highlight is on Saturday, Oct. 4 with the Giargiari Bel Canto Competition, a signature AVA tradition for more than 45 years. The school’s Resident Artists perform some of opera’s most demanding arias in front of a live audience and a panel of judges, making the evening both a showcase of talent and a test of skill.
The competition is charged with anticipation as each artist delivers their own interpretation with technical precision and emotional depth. Audience members have a direct role in the outcome by voting for the coveted Audience Choice Award, which adds another level of excitement to the night.
Last year’s winners included bass Raúl Morales Velazco (First Place), bass Cumhur Görgün (Second Place) and tenor Luke Norvell ’25, who earned the Audience Choice Award with a crowd-pleasing performance.
Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro
AVA’s 91st opera season officially begins in November with Le nozze di Figaro, one of Mozart’s most enduring works. There will be seven performances between Nov. 8 and Dec. 2, giving audiences multiple opportunities to see the production. The story follows Figaro and Susanna as they prepare for their wedding while working to outwit the scheming Count Almaviva.
Limited - Figaro 2Provided Courtesy/The Academy of Vocal Arts
Le nozze di Figaro
Filled with clever disguises, mistaken identities and last-minute revelations, the opera blends comedy, drama and social commentary. Mozart’s score brings warmth and brilliance to the story, makingFigaro a favorite for opera newcomers and longtime fans alike.
This production will be conducted by Joseph Colaneri, directed by Tara Faircloth and feature scenic design by Cameron Anderson.
Tickets
Tickets are available now for the Giargiari Bel Canto Competition on Saturday, OCt. 4 and for seven performances of Le nozze di Figaro between Nov. 8 and Dec. 2. For details and to reserve seats, visit avaopera.org or call 215-735-1685.