Participation

DEBUT is an international Classical Singing Competition, which supports young opera singers embarking on their career. The contest is open to the following voice types: soprano, mezzo-soprano & alto, tenor, countertenor and baritone & bass. It gives young soloists an opportunity to appear in a competition with a strong international profile in the presence of a distinguished judging panel. The event is held every second year in Weikersheim, which following a three-month entry phase serve as the venue for the preliminary rounds and the competition.

The next competition will take place from 23 to 28 September 2026. 

  • Female singers aged 34 or under 
  • Male singers aged 34 or under 

All individuals born in or after the year 1990 are eligible to apply

6 arias, comprised of

  • 4 compulsory pieces 
  • 2 of your own choice

A total of three different languages and periods must be represented. One operetta aria is allowed. Each opera must not feature in the list more than once. All arias must be sung in the original language. 

AND

5 lieder, comprised of

  • 1 compulsory, contemporary piece (composed especially for DEBUT), semi-final
  • 4 pieces of your own choice selected from different composers
  • Technical skill
  • Musical interpretation (rhythm, phrasing, expression)
  • Voice quality
  • Artistic personality / presence
  • Registration fee: 45 EUR
  • Participation fee for the competition week: 220 EUR

All payments must be made to the following bank account in the Organizers’ name, stating the applicant’s name and number:

Account holder: DEBUT Concerts GmbH

Bank:Sparkasse Tauberfranken

IBAN:DE79 6735 2565 0000 0019 74

SWIFT code:SOLADES1TBB

  • Qualifying rounds
  • Semifinal
  • Lieder recital
  • Final / gala concert