International Singing Competition NEW VOICES

The biennial International Singing Competition NEUE STIMMEN of the Liz Mohn Culture and Music Foundation is aimed at young opera and vocal talents from around the world. In several global preliminary rounds, applicants prove themselves before an internationally composed jury, before selected finalists perform in Gütersloh in front of an audience and with orchestral accompaniment. The prize winners receive not only financial recognition with a total prize money of €66,000 but also long-term support: individual masterclasses, coaching sessions, and professional feedback discussions offer participants the optimal career start and help pave the way to leading opera houses. Vocal quality, musical expression, and development potential are evaluated to sustainably discover and promote outstanding emerging voices.

After the competition ends, the ‹Creating Careers› program guarantees continuous support from renowned experts in the opera world and an extensive network of agencies, theater companies, and media partners. In addition, concert performances and international exchange formats provide valuable visibility on significant stages. The application period begins on December 8, 2025, with the final round and subsequent support measures starting from April 2026. This unique combination of competition, further education, and mentoring makes the program the ideal platform for young professionals seeking a sustainable and artistically demanding career in opera.