Applications Open for DEBUT 2026

Applications Open for DEBUT 2026

Young singers of all voice types up to the age of 34 are invited to apply online until June 30, 2026 and become part of an exceptional competition week.
The upcoming edition is dedicated to the theme “Music of Scandinavia” and at the same time marks the conclusion of a ten-year artistic cycle under the direction of Clarry Bartha. Since 2016, DEBUT has combined thematic programming with commissioned works, placing the artistic individuality of each singer at its core.
In 2026, the contemporary compulsory song will be composed by Swedish composer Tebogo Monnakgotla, one of the leading voices in Scandinavian contemporary music.
DEBUT sees itself as a springboard for emerging artists – a place for encounter, inspiration, and artistic growth.

Competition: September 20–26, 2026, Weikersheim
Lied Final: September 24
Grand Final: September 26, Tauberphilharmonie

Jury 2026
Paul McNamara (Chair) – Tenor, Artistic Director, Dutch National Opera Academy
Alessandro Di Gloria – Casting Manager, Teatro dell’Opera di Roma
Brigitte Fassbaender – Kammersängerin, Stage Director, Artistic Director
Elisabeth Haglund – Artist Manager
Per Boye Hansen – Artistic Director, National Theatre Opera & State Opera Prague
Boris Ignatov – Casting Director, Stuttgart State Opera
Dominik Licht – Casting Consultant, Royal Danish Opera
Prof. Dr. Stephan Mösch – Musicologist
Lilli Paasikivi – Artistic Director, Bregenz Festival
Olga Peretyatko – Soprano
Susanne Schmidt – Casting Director, Opera Vlaanderen
Shirley Thomson – Artist Manager, HarrisonParrott
Evamaria Wieser – Casting Director, Salzburg Festival

Who may apply?
Singers of all voice types
Age limit: up to 34 years

Application
Period: April 1 – June 30, 2026
Online: www.debut.de
Requirement: video recording (two arias or one aria and one lied)

Repertoire

• 6 arias in total
  • 3 required (from the DEBUT list)
  • 3 free choice
• 5 lieder in total
  • 1 contemporary compulsory piece (commissioned work)
  • 4 Scandinavian lieder (from the DEBUT list)
     

Participant Benefits
Accommodation and meals
Piano accompaniment & jury feedback
Workshops & optional professional photoshoot