Applications are now open for the 1st Milka Ternina International Singing Competition, held in honour of one of the greatest operatic artists in Croatian and international music history. The competition will take place from 15 to 19 June 2026 under the auspices of the Academy of Music, University of Zagreb, Croatia’s oldest and largest institution for music education.

Through several competition rounds, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their vocal talent, interpretative skills, and technical mastery before a distinguished international jury, including:

  • Giorgio Surian – bass-baritone, Principal National Opera Soloist, Professor of Arts (President of the Jury)
  • Martina Gojčeta Silić – mezzo-soprano, Professor of Arts
  • Iva Hraste Sočo – soprano, General Manager and Artistic Director, Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb
  • Alex Grigorev – tenor, Director of TACT Artist Management
  • Mattia Campetti – Artistic Manager, IMG Artists
  • Christian Carlstedt – Casting Consultant, Komische Oper Berlin, Bühnen Bern, Stadttheater Klagenfurt, ZaterdagMatinee / Concertgebouw Amsterdam
  • Pal Christian Moe – Casting Consultant, Bayerische Staatsoper Munich and Glyndebourne Festival

The final round will be held on 19 June 2026 at the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, with accompaniment by the Orchestra of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb.

The total prize fund exceeds EUR 15,000, along with additional awards and professional opportunities, including performances, engagements, and auditions with leading cultural institutions and festivals.

The competition is open to singers of all nationalities in two categories:

  • Opera: female singers up to 30 years old, male singers up to 32 years old
  • Young Singers: female and male singers up to 24 years old

Applications must be submitted by 20 April 2026.

Full details on the competition program, rules, and prizes are available on the official website: https://pjevacko-natjecanje-milka-trnina.com/en/