The 2024 Rochester International Vocal Competition Showcase Premiere will take place at 7:30 p.m. on May 18 at the Fireside Lounge at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Purchase Tickets Here

The showcase will feature talented musicians from around the world and local performances by tenor Ghalip Ekber and pianist Kevin Nitsch. The event, serving as a fundraiser, supports the Rochester Oratorio Society’s music education programs across the region. Attendees will have the first opportunity to hear the competition winners and vote for the audience favorite award.

This event, celebrating its 17th year, highlights early-career vocalists and attracted 236 contestants from 12 countries this spring. Past winners and finalists have performed at prestigious venues worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera and in Chicago, San Francisco, Houston, Pittsburgh, and across Europe.

This year’s sponsors include Insero & Co. CPAs and Woods Oviatt Gilman. The funds raised will help the Rochester Oratorio Society sustain and expand its artistic services, including artistic development programs, high-quality performances, and music education for local youth.

Emma Grace Wade, the 2022 Emerging Artist award winner, praised her participation in the competition. “It was such an honor to be a part of the Rochester International Vocal Competition. The award was a catalyst for many of my recent career engagements,” Wade said, referring to her performance with Kearstin Piper Brown and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra in a series celebrating Black composers and artists. Wade, a Mercy High School graduate, is currently studying at the Eastman School of Music.

Eric Townell, the artistic director of the Rochester Oratorio Society, emphasized the importance of the competition. “The Vocal Competition gives voice to our best qualities as a choir and as a region where choral music and individual artistry are alive, well-supported, and nurtured,” Townell said. “We hope you’ll join us to celebrate vocal talent and support increased opportunities for music education on May 18!”

Tickets are $45 and include valet parking and light refreshments. They are available online at https://rossings.org/RIVC or by calling (585) 743-2234. Advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged.

To learn more about the 2024 Rochester International Vocal Competition, visit https://rossings.org/RIVC