CVAI: The momentum of youth: A breath of fresh air in opera

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BY MARC-ANTOINE D’ARAGON AND NADIA MONCZAK

The 2025 summer season in Montreal promises vibrance, youth and artistic excellence. Two major institutions, the Canadian Vocal Arts Institute (CVAI) and the Orchestre de la Francophonie (OF), are joining forces to offer an unprecedented musical experience to young singers from around the world. This collaboration promises to mark a turning point in the training of young talent in opera and classical music.

For its 21st edition, the CVAI is reinventing itself. Under the impetus of an artistic committee chaired by baritone Étienne Dupuis, the program now welcomes conductors, stage directors and opera pianists, creating a rich and stimulating environment for up-and-coming artists. Trainees will be offered a wide range of performance opportunities, both in small ensembles and accompanied by a full orchestra. The response is already impressive: this year, CVAI received almost 280 applications from more than 20 countries, a record in the institution’s history. The names of the selected artists will be announced shortly on icav.ca.

CVAI 20th Anniversary, 2022

For its part, the Orchestre de la Francophonie is embarking on its 24th season with ambition and renewal. As it begins the search for its next artistic director, the OF continues to pursue its fundamental mission: to prepare young musicians who have graduated from acclaimed institutions to join the ranks of the world’s greatest orchestras.

The 2025 season promises to be exceptional. Among the highlights will be an audition concert where young singers will perform their opera arias with orchestra, in an atmosphere akin to the finals of a prestigious international competition. The stage will also come alive with Mozart’s The Magic Flute, conducted by Christopher Gaudreault and directed by Nathalie Deschamps. The public will also be able to attend master classes, galas and concerts throughout July, from the 2nd to the 27th.

Woman singing on stage with her arms in the air

CVAI Gala 2022

This synergy between the CVAI and the OF goes beyond the stage. The two institutions now share communications and ticketing resources, which will raise the profile of the participating young artists, boosting the impact of their performances.

Behind this artistic effervescence lies the unfailing support of committed partners. The Vanda Treiser initiatives, the Jacqueline Desmarais Foundation, Power Corp. of Canada, and the Azrieli Foundation make these projects possible, enabling emerging artists to realize their dreams.

Next summer, Montreal will vibrate to the rhythm of these promising young voices and talents. An invitation to discover today the big names of tomorrow.

Marc-Antoine d’Aragon is executive director and Nadia Monczak is education co-ordinator of the Canadian Vocal Arts Institute.