# Philly's next opera stars sing for the win

> One night at the Kimmel Center where young singers chase the aria that launches a career, and the crowd helps pick the winner.
- Title: Philly's next opera stars sing for the win · PhillyVoice
- Summary: One night at the Kimmel Center where young singers chase the aria that launches a career, and the crowd helps pick the winner. On October 3 at the Kimmel…
- Keywords: opera, philadelphia, kimmel center, live music, competition, news, local, Philly's, next, stars, sing, win
- Source: PhillyVoice — https://phillyvoice.com/ava-giargiari-bel-canto-competition-2026-05999-77365
- Published: 2026-09-11T15:58:31.196+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: opera, philadelphia, kimmel center, live music, competition, news, local
## A career starts here
On Saturday, October 3, the Academy of Vocal Arts brings its Giargiari Bel Canto Competition to the Kimmel Center. The singers on that stage are auditioning for the rest of their lives.

> every legendary career begins with a breakthrough performance
## Forty-five years running
The competition has been one of AVA's signature events for more than 45 years, putting the school's internationally acclaimed Resident Artists in front of a live audience and a panel of judges.
## You get a vote
The Audience Choice Award lets everyone in the hall vote for a favorite performer. Attendees are not just watching the talent get recognized, they are part of deciding it.

> Audience members play an active role in recognizing exceptional talent
## Hard arias, no hiding
Under musical director Danielle Orlando, the artists sing technically demanding arias judged on vocal excellence plus emotional interpretation, dramatic expression, and artistic maturity.
## First opera? Start here
The format is built for newcomers as much as regulars. Short famous arias, high stakes, and a night of dramatic storytelling instead of a three-hour plot to follow.
## Three more shows ahead
The season continues with Donizetti's L'elisir d'amore in November, Puccini's Il tabarro and Gianni Schicchi in February, and Verdi's Il trovatore closing in spring 2027.
## Key takeaway

On October 3 at the Kimmel Center, AVA's Resident Artists compete in the Giargiari Bel Canto Competition, and every ticket holder gets a vote.