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.
The series opens on 3 May in the hall of the Oude Stadhuis on the Markt with a performance by Cláudia Ribas, the Portugese mezzo-soprano who won multiple prizes, including the Grand Prize 's-Hertogenbosch, during the 2024 IVC Opera & Oratorio. Together with pianist André Dolabella, she presents the program, L’Invitation au Voyage with works from well-known masters Fauré, Duparc, Brahms and Mahler, as well as Portugese songs from her home. A personal musical journey in song form.
Song in the City vindt verder plaats op 12 juli, 13 september en 29 november.
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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!
The Singer Sessions include private coachings, group sessions, public masterclasses, and a closing concert at Museum Kruithuis, as part of the IVC’s new concert series – “Song in the City”. Movement and body work, mentoring, and professional guidance round out the week.
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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