The Academy of Vocal Arts

Application and Entrance Requirements

The Academy of Vocal Arts accepts singers on a full-tuition scholarship basis only. Most of AVA's artists have graduated from renowned music schools in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia and Central and South America. They have already achieved a high level of musicianship, a knowledge of music theory and history, and have had many years of private voice study with major voice teachers. Singers are urged not to apply unless they feel they have exceptional vocal/theatrical qualifications and have dedicated themselves to a professional career. All applications are reviewed by the executive director. Applicants with insufficient experience are discouraged from applying, and applications and fees are returned. All applicants must enter the program by means of a formal application and audition.

2013 Auditions
Philadelphia

March 18 and 19, 2013

FINALS March 20, 2013

 

Application and supporting documents deadlines

DEADLINE EXTENDED!

All applications must be postmarked by March 11, 2013.


Applications received via email or fax will not be accepted. Contact Val Starr, Dean of Students, with questions regarding your application. Ms. Starr can be reached at vstarr@avaopera.org or 215.735.1685.

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Entrance Requirements

  • Applicants should have at least four years of college training in music or its equivalent in private study.

  • Applicants are accepted regardless of race, sex, nationality, religion, disability or marital status. Age guidelines are 18-28 for women, 20-30 for men. Exceptions are made on an individual basis, depending on the applicant's talent and any other extenuating circumstances such as military service or having entered the music field at a very late stage. Please send proof of age (birth certificate, driver's license, etc.) when submitting an application.

  • No college/university transcripts are required for an audition. Once accepted, applicant must submit copy of official college/university transcript demonstrating scholastic competence to succeed at a graduate level as well as competence in music theory, ear training, language skills, music history and basic keyboard skills.

Requirements for Foreign Applicants

  • AVA welcomes applications from qualified singers from other countries. Admission requirements are identical for all applicants, regardless of citizenship. English proficiency is required, and is evaluated in the audition process. TOEFL scores are required. Immigration regulations require all successful foreign applicants to obtain a student visa. The Academy of Vocal Arts is approved for attendance by artists granted either an F-1 or M-1 visa. AVA will enter international students into the SEVIS system and provide a SEVIS I-20 form for those students so that they may apply for their F-1 or M-1 visas.

  • The application form must be completely filled out, mailed or hand delivered to The Academy along with a $100 non-refundable application fee. Faxed materials are not accepted.