The week is almost here, and we’re so excited to welcome these incredible artists to Edmonton for a full week of learning, community, and competition.
Curious how you can get involved?
Here’s your guide to everything about the Rumbold Vocal Prize. From the Masterclass to the thrilling Grand Finale.
Monday, November 17 | Masterclass
Start the week with something truly special – and free!
The Rumbold Vocal Prize Masterclass kicks off the week’s events and offers audiences a rare behind-the-scenes look at how great performers are built. Each finalist will work live with our master clinician, Tracy Dahl, performing, receiving feedback, and then putting it into practice.
It's a wonderful way to get invested early and see how these artists grow before the Grand Finale on Friday.
Meet the Finalists
A post-masterclass reception will follow. Open to anyone who attends.
Masterclass
Taylor College & Seminary, Stencel Hall • 7:00 PM
11525 23 Ave NW
Please note
When searching for Taylor Seminary on Google, the result may appear as Aurora Academic Skyrattler Campus. This is the correct location, as Taylor Seminary and College are part of that campus.
Tuesday, November 18 to Thursday, November 20 | Behind the Scenes
There are no public events during these mid-week sessions, but there is still plenty happening behind the scenes.
Our finalists will be immersed in coaching and mentorship with:
Beyond the rehearsal rooms, this week also brings opportunities for the finalists to connect with the Rumbold family – the generous supporters who make this competition possible.
Follow our Rumbold Vocal Prize social accounts for behind-the-scenes footage throughout the week.
Friday, November 21 | The Grand Finale
The big night!
After a week of study and preparation, our four finalists take the stage at the Horowitz Theatre to compete for prizes.
But what makes this competition truly special is that everyone walks away a winner. Each finalist has the chance to receive more than one award.
First Place - $12,000
Second Place - $8,000
Third Place (tie) - $5,000 each
Yukon Arts Centre Residency Prize - $3,500 +
The Grace Audience Choice Award - $1,000
The top three prizes are chosen by our esteemed panel of judges.
The Yukon Arts Centre Residency Prize is awarded by Michele Emslie, Director of Programming from the Yukon Arts Centre.
And the Grace Rumbold Audience Choice Award is chosen by you – the audience – in honour of the late Grace Rumbold, whose vision and generosity helped make this competition a reality. This is the first year of the award, and each person attending gets to cast their vote and help crown the very first winner.
During the judges’ deliberations, enjoy a special performance by the University of Alberta student participant, Wiktoria Jurkiewicz.
Enter to Win
Join us at the Rumbold Vocal Prize on November 21 and enter to win two season subscriptions to our 2026/27 season. Ballots will be available at the venue, so make sure you enter for your chance to enjoy a full season of opera on us.
Parking
Parking is available at the Stadium Carpark, which connects directly to the west doors of the Student Union Building (Level 7) via covered pedway
The Education Carpark is also located nearby
Both carparks are fully wheelchair accessible
drop-off and pick up locations
There are two convenient options for drop-off and pick-up:
Discovery Walk near the U of A Industrial Design Studio. Please note this location is at the bottom of a hill.
Between the Van Vliet Centre and the Education Carpark along 114 Street NW. From here, head north on 89th Avenue to reach the southeast doors of the Students’ Union Building.
ACCESIBILITY
The Horowitz Theatre is fully accessible, with wheelchair seating available in the venue and elevator access to the theatre.
Grand Finale
Horowitz Theatre • 7:30 PM
University of Alberta Students Union, 8900 114 St NW
Celebration and Farewell
Winners will be announced, celebrations will unfold, and another unforgettable year of the Rumbold Vocal Prize will come to a close.
Thank you for joining us in supporting Canada’s next generation of vocal stars.