Cascais Opera – International Vocal Competition is now open for applications for its 3rd edition, inviting young opera singers from all over the world to embark on an artistic experience of excellence that combines training, performance, and real career opportunities.
With each edition, the competition has grown in prestige, prizes, and international impact. This year, the total prize value exceeds €50,000 (see prizes), and the number of contracts and international artistic partnerships continues to expand, establishing Cascais Opera as one of the most promising vocal competitions of today.
Applications are open to singers of all nationalities, aged between 18 and 32, and all voice types are welcome. Applications are open until January 15, 2026, and must be submitted online via this link.
In the previous edition, the competition received more than 340 applications from 49 countries, reinforcing its global standing. The competition brings together a distinguished international jury, presided over by baritone Sergei Leiferkus, and composed of renowned names such as Antonio Pirolli, Catarina Sereno, Christina Scheppelmann, Eline de Kat, Erik Malmquist, Ferruccio Furlanetto, Fredrik Andersson, Ivan van Kalmthout, Juliane Banse, and Karen Stone. This remarkable panel ensures global relevance and provides meaningful artistic guidance for the Young participants’ careers.
The entire competition takes place in iconic venues across the town of Cascais. The Final will be held at the Grand Auditorium of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, in Lisbon, accompanied by the Cascais Symphony Orchestra — the most anticipated moment of the competition, where talent and emotion meet on a world-class stage.
Set between the stunning landscapes of Cascais and the vibrant city of Lisbon, the competition brings together artistic excellence and Heritage, positioning Portugal as a new international centre for opera.
Applications open until January 15, 2026!
