"Elizabeth Connell was a South African dramatic soprano, who attained international acclaim for her performances throughout her career. She began her professional life, singing as a mezzo soprano before transitioning to soprano. Her repertoire ranged from Rossini, Mozart and Bellini, to Strauss, Verdi and Wagner. It was her love of the dramatic repertoire, which lead her to establish the Elizabeth Connell Prize.
The competition’s aim, based on Elizabeth Connell’s own wishes, is to foster aspiring young dramatic female voices who show the potential to sing the more dramatic repertoire. Entrants do not have to currently be a dramatic soprano or dramatic mezzo-soprano to enter, simply show potential. All repertoire is accepted, especially the lyric repertoire, which is highly encouraged for this age group. This competition is Elizabeth Connell’s legacy to the opera world.
ONLINE APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN - closing date for entries 1 June 2022
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. Please download and read the
2. The 2022 competition will be held online.
3. 2022 PRIZES - AUD $60,000* 8 individual prizes available.* Total prize money valued up to AUD$60,000* Prizes will range from AUD$5,000 to AUD$10,000 each.* The purpose of the cash grants is to assist winners with their operatic careers.UpdateIn past years, the competition has been held over 3 rounds. Video application, then live auditions throughout the world with five finalists flown to Sydney, Australia to compete for the $25,000 first prize.
Due to Covid-19, the organisers are presently unable to hold the competition this way. Until travel restrictions are lifted and borders remain open, the competition will be held online until further notice.
History
Created from a legacy left by the South African soprano Elizabeth Connell, the competition is open to SOPRANOS & MEZZO SOPRANOS of all nationalities aged 25-34. The competition is to financially assist female opera singers who show the potential to move into the more dramatic repertoire. Since 2014, the ECP has awarded AUD$324,000 in prize money.
Previous Judges
Throughout the competition, judges have included Richard Bonynge, Simone Young, Dame Anne Evans, Christa Ludwig, Ruth Falcon, Dame Ann Murray, James Morris, Deborah Polaski, Jane Eaglen, Christine Goerke, Sharon Sweet, Bernadette Cullen, Glenn Winslade, Marilyn Richardson, Nance Grant, Brenda Hurley, Patricia Price, Jennifer McGregor and Fiona Janes."
