Gerda Lissner Foundation Announces Art Song Winners
The foundation awarded prizes following a rigorous multi-day competition held in New York City.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Opera
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The Gerda Lissner Foundation has unveiled the winners of its 2026 Art Song Competition. The organization selected the top vocalists from a pool of more than 300 international applicants.
Why it matters
The competition highlights the essential artistic partnership between poetry, music, the singer, and the pianist. It provides financial support to emerging artists to help sustain their professional development.
The foundation awarded two $12,000 top prizes, a $2,500 Judges' Special Prize, and six $2,000 grants. This follows a field of 300 international applicants evaluated by a panel of music professionals.
The players
Gerda Lissner Foundation
This organization provides annual support for vocalists to foster the development of aspiring opera and art song performers.
Arlene Shrut
She is a collaborative pianist who provides musical accompaniment for vocalists in professional and competition settings.
The details
Finalists were evaluated during competition rounds held at The Kosciuszko Foundation in New York City. The performers were accompanied throughout the finals by collaborative pianist Arlene Shrut.
Timeline
October 13-15, 2026: Preliminary competition rounds.
October 16, 2026: The finals of the competition took place.
April 29, 2027: Winners concert at Zankel Hall.
Industry Dynamics
These competitions serve as critical launchpads for emerging vocalists by providing both financial backing and public performance opportunities. This event fits into a broader landscape of institutional support that bridges the gap between conservatory training and professional stage careers.
The public can experience the talent of these award winners at the upcoming performance at Zankel Hall. Tickets for the April concert provide a direct way for opera enthusiasts to support the next generation of performers.
The takeaway
Supporting the synthesis of poetry and music remains a cornerstone of sustaining the vocal arts. Enthusiasts can track the development of these emerging artists by attending the showcase concert in 2027.
What happens next
The winners of the competition are scheduled to perform at an annual concert held at Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall on April 29, 2027.
Further reading
Discover more about the evolving landscape of local performances at New York City Opera.
More information
For more details on future programs or to apply, visit the foundation competition application portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
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