The New Orleans Opera Association (NOOA) recently honored composer Moses Hogan with a dedication ceremony and recital in June. The NOOA has begun accepting applications for the eighth annual Donald W. Wood, Sr. Vocal Competition and the Wood Operatic Advancement Grant. 

Established in 2015 by Ms. Debby Hirsch Wood, the Donald W. Wood, Sr. Vocal Competition provides a platform for young opera talents. The competition, renamed after Ms. Wood’s late husband, is aimed at Louisiana high school students interested in classical music and pursuing a career in opera performance. Open to students in grades 10 through 12 of all vocal training levels, the application period ends on November 6. Full details on repertoire and application requirements can be found here.

The Wood Operatic Advancement Grant extends the competition and is open to former vocal competition participants who received first, second, third place, or honorable mention. The grant aims to provide financial support for winners pursuing a career in opera performance during their undergraduate and postgraduate studies. It covers expenses related to auditions, coaching, and out-of-town studies.

Clare Burovac, General and Artistic Director of NOOA, commented on the competition’s significance: “The Wood Competition plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing young talent, giving them both recognition and financial assistance to advance their training. We are so grateful to Debby Hirsch Wood for her vision and commitment to provide this opportunity to vocal students here in Louisiana.”

The vocal competition and grant winners will be announced on December 4 through the NOOA website and the Donald W. Wood, Sr. Vocal Competition Facebook page.

The Donald W. Wood, Sr. Vocal Competition and Wood Operatic Advancement Grant are made possible by support from the Wood Family and other New Orleans Opera Association donors. Contributions to the Wood Competition funding can be directed to Joanna Sternberg, Director of Development, at [email protected].