Voice of Black Opera (VOBO) Competition 2025
Presented by the Black British Classical Foundation, the Voice of Black Opera (VOBO) returns in 2025 to celebrate the Commonwealth’s most promising Black and South Asian operatic talent. Twelve singers will be shortlisted and brought to the UK for a week of performances, mentorship and masterclasses, culminating in a Gala Final at Fairfield Halls, Croydon on 25 October 2025.
Awards
The Sir Willard White Trophy, including a £10,000 prize, will be awarded to the overall winner.
The Samuel Coleridge Taylor Trophy will be awarded for the best performance of a song by a Black composer, alongside a specially commissioned song cycle and three paid performances.
What to Expect
The first round is a video audition round, applicants are asked to submit video links of themselves performing two arias and an art song. The jury will select the strongest twelve applicants to proceed to the live preliminary round.
At the live preliminary round, all twelve selected competitors will perform a programme of up to 15 minutes, accompanied by piano. The programme must include two operatic arias in their original languages and keys,and one art song in the original language, and additionally, one song by a Black or South Asian composer. Following this round, the jury will select the five strongest singers to proceed to the Gala Final.
For the final round, all applicants must choose a programme of up to 20 minutes, to include a duet with a leading operatic Soprano, Tenor or Baritone. The programme must also include at least two operatic arias and one song (including spirituals) written or arranged by a Black or South Asian composer.
Non-finalists will take part in outreach sessions with local schools.
For those based outside London, accommodation will be arranged, and travel costs will be covered. A daily meal contribution will also be provided.
How to Apply
Applications are open until 15 June 2025 (midnight BST).
To apply, please fill in the online application form and email the following documents to competitionmanager@bbcf.uk:
- A scan or photo of your passport
- A recommendation letter from a singing teacher, conservatoire, or opera house
- A full-length photo and completed measurements chart (for finalist outfits)
- An unedited audition video link recorded within the past year (YouTube unlisted preferred)
- Notification if a UK visa is required
Audition & Repertoire Guidelines
Your audition video should include two contrasting operatic arias and one art song, all performed in their original languages. You may also include a contemporary song by a Black or South Asian composer.
Shortlisted singers will be invited to perform live in London in October, presenting a 15-minute programme that includes the above elements, along with one additional song by a Black or South Asian composer.
If selected for the final, your 20-minute performance will include at least two arias, one duet, and one piece by a Black or South Asian composer. Once agreed, repertoire for the final cannot be changed due to orchestral requirements.
A list of suggested composers is available in the rules and regulations. Other choices are welcome.
Eligibility
Applicants must be of Black or South Asian heritage and hold a passport from a Commonwealth member state. You must be at least 20 years old by 25 October 2025 and available to travel to and remain in London from 15 to 27 October 2025.
Broadcasting & Promotion
VOBO 2025 will be filmed and recorded for television, radio and digital broadcast. By applying, you agree to the use of your image and performance in promotional materials across all platforms.
Measuring Guidance
Applicants are required to submit a completed Fashion Measuring Chart. If you need assistance, we will provide a link to video instructions on how to measure yourself correctly.
