International Vocal Competition ‘s-Hertogenbosch
The International Vocal Competition (IVC) is a classical singing competition that has attracted singers from all over the world to ‘s-Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands since 1954. Once a small singing competition aimed at singers from the Benelux, IVC has grown into an internationally renowned competition that attracts participants, artistic directors and supporters from all over the world. The IVC has been the only international singing competition in the Netherlands that guarantees world-class classical vocal music. In 2024, IVC celebrated its 70th anniversary with its 57th edition, focussing on opera and oratorio.
IVC is an open community, a meeting place for all those working in (vocal) music in the field of opera and other genres. It aims to connect employers (opera studios, intendants, impresarios, festival and orchestra directors) and talented singers at the beginning of their careers. IVC aims to be a space to air problems encountered by beginning singers on their path and an institute to which one can turn for career advice. IVC offers opportunities to young professional singers and carries the ‘Triple D’ status: Discover, Develop and Deliver. It stands for talent development and career guidance. IVC produces the stars of the future and is at the beginning of the ladder that takes them to the Concertgebouw, Dutch National Opera and other international opera houses, song recitals and concerts on national and international stages.
Over the years, IVC has proved to be a springboard for many celebrities who began their careers at IVC, such as Elly Ameling, Robert Holl, Thomas Hampson, Nelly Miricioiu, Ileana Cotrubas, Viorica Cortez, Marco Bakker, Jard van Nes, Linda Finnie, Sophie Koch, Sarah Connolly, Lenneke Ruiten, Ilse Eerens, Claron McFadden, Nadine Koutcher, Catriona Morison and Pretty Yende.
IVC ranks among the top in the world of international classical singing competitions and has developed into a cultural calling card for the Netherlands over the past 70 years. Since September 2023, the IVC has been led by British countertenor Andrew Watts.
