The International Vocal Competition (IVC) ‘s-Hertogenbosch is a classical singing competition that has been supporting young classical singing talent on their way to a professional career in classical music since 1954. What once began as a small singing competition aimed at singers from the Benelux countries has now, 70 years later, grown into an internationally renowned singing competition with local, national and international appeal. Singers from all over the world come to 's-Hertogenbosch and perform before a prominent international jury, press jury, a youth jury and an enthusiastic audience. During the Competition, music from the Baroque era to the 21st century will be performed.
The IVC is not only a challenging competition for competition participants, but also a platform for artistic and personal growth, with awards that offer long-term value and prepare participants for successful careers in the classical music world. The IVC provides an inspiring and supportive environment for emerging artists to demonstrate their skills and talent and realise their artistic potential. The IVC is a spirited competition with a human face. Aware of the pressures young singers experience, the IVC strives to give every participant - even those who do not win - a valuable experience that serves as encouragement for the future.
In 2025 the International Vocal Competition presents a brand new concert series: Song in the City. Four intimate evening concerts in unique historical locations in Den Bosch's city center bring classical music as class to the public as it can get.
2024 Grand Prix winner mezzo-soprano Cláudia Ribas opened the series on 3 May with pianist André Dolabella in their program L'invitation au Voyage.
The second edition of Song in the City, Summer Lovin', will bring singers of the IVC Singer Sessions masterclass week to the stage. To round out the Sessions, a final concert will be held on 12 July in the Museum Kruithuis in Den Bosch. Song in the City continues on 13 September with soprano Lenneke Ruiten and 29 November with singers from the Nederlandse Opera Studio.
GET YOUR TICKETS for the public masterclasses in Podium Azijnfabriek!
IVC Singer Sessions take place from 8-12 July, 2025 in Den Bosch. Singers will work with renowned teachers and singers from the industry; countertenor Andrew Watts, soprano and director of the Dutch National Opera Studio Rosemary Joshua, pedagogue Margreet Honig and more!
Singer Sessions consists of 1-on-1 coachings, group sessions and public masterclasses, as well as a final concert in the Museum Kruithuis. This concert is part of the IVC's new series, Song in the City.
For more information about the Singer Sessions, as well as to buy tickets to the public masterclasses and final concert, click the button below!
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