McCammon Competition
The Opera Guild of Fort Worth
"The news in the opera world is that the McCammon is where stars are discovered”
Lucky Thirteen—Lucky Stars
Future Opera Stars From All Over the Globe Will Shine in Fort Worth
The Opera Guild of Fort Worth presented the Thirteenth Biennial Marguerite McCammon Voice competition in Fort Worth on May 23 and May 24. Thirty semifinalists were chosen to compete for a place in the finals and an opportunity to win the first prize of $10000 and a role in an upcoming production of Fort Worth Opera.
The semifinals were held on Friday, May 23 beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the auditorium of the Modern Art Museum, 3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth. From this group up to twelve finalists were chosen to compete for numerous prizes in Bass Performance Hall on Saturday, May 24 beginning at 1:00 p.m.
There were 152 entries for the 2008 competition which included singers from the U.S., Russia, South Africa, Greece, Japan and Canada. In addition to the grand prize, second prize was awarded $5000 and third prize, $3000. Additional prizes of $1500 were given for Audience Favorite, the Milburn Award for Male Voice, and a Female Encouragement award. The jury consists of Opera Directors and Artist Managers and was chaired by Darren K. Woods, General Director of Fort Worth Opera.
The McCammon is known for introducing new talent to the opera stage around the world. Four finalists from the 2006 competition performed major roles in Fort Worth Opera's 2008 Festival. These include first place winner, Michael Todd Simpson, second place winner, Dongwon Shin, female encouragement and audience favorite, Ava Pine and semifinalist, Elizabeth Bennett. Other past winners of note are Vivica Geneaux, Kyle Ketelson, Richard Paul Fink and Frank Hernandez.
For the second time, a delayed radio broadcast of the finals aired on KTCU 88.7 FM with Rosemary Solomons, Director of Classical Music for KTCU and host of the program Classical Excursions, returning as co-host with Keith Wolfe, Managing Director of Fort Worth Opera.
Fort Worth hospitality included a draw party, free accommodations, some travel expenses, most meals and an opportunity to attend Fort Worth Opera rehearsals and performances. Contestants also met with opera directors from around the United States and with singer agents. Two professional accompanists were provided for rehearsal and audition.
The McCammon Competition is organized and executed by an all volunteer group who are members of The Opera Guild of Fort Worth. Kay Bolz is competition chair. The Guild's mission is "to foster the talents and careers of emerging young singers by providing an internationally acclaimed and recognized vocal competition."
In 2005 the Star-Telegram named the McCammon Competition one of the top ten classical music events of the year. The talent this year promises the stars will continue to shine on these new young voices.
Information for the 2010 McCammon Voice Competition will be coming soon!
Competition Questions, Information, Details
Marguerite McCammon Voice Competition
1300 Gendy Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76107
T 817.731.0833 x 25
F 817.731.0835
mccammon@fwopera.org
fwopera.org in the About Us section
Have a Question? Check out the Frequently Asked Question pdf: Artist FAQ
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