On April 29 of this year, the Metropolitan Opera house held their annual National Council Grand Finals Concert. No need for a time machine, we will broadcast the recording of the live concert on Saturday, June 23 at 1 p.m. The concert was the culminating event after months of competitions. Auditions for this event took place all over the United States and Canada, searching for young and talented opera singers. Winners in the past have included Eric Owens, Deborah Voigt, and Renee Fleming. In its 60 years of operation, this competition has helped launch the careers of many of opera’s biggest stars.

Nine finalists, ages 23-28, were named after the extensive search and offered the opportunity to perform on the Met stage for this Grand Finals concert. The audience consists of artistic directors, managers, teachers, and music critics from some of the leading opera companies around. The amazingly talented Joyce DiDonato hosts the event, with Bertrand de Billy conducting the Met orchestra. The program is widely varied, featuring music from Mozart to Massenet. After a special performance from Tenor Bryan Hymel and Joyce DiDonato the winners were announced - the winners received $15,000 and the exposure that the competition brings, and the other finalists each received $5,000.

You don’t want to miss hearing this broadcast. These promising young musicians may very well be the next Pavarotti. This intense competition will be sure to keep you on your toes, and will keep you listening until the end. Don’t miss your chance to hear these artists before they are superstars! Tune in Saturday at 1 p.m. to WHRO-FM at 90.3, 89.9, 98.3, or online.

• 
•