Five prize winners were chosen at the 57th annual New England Regional Finals of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions at New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall on Sunday, Jan. 30. This year’s First Prize of $6000 went to 25 year-old mezzo-soprano Allegra De Vita of Trumbull, who holds degrees from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield and the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University.
She will join the winners from 13 regions throughout the United States and Canada for coaching by members of the Metropolitan Opera’s artistic staff in preparation for the National Semifinals on Sunday, March 15. That day, 10 finalists will be chosen to compete in the Grand Finals Concert at the Metropolitan Opera House, accompanied by the Met Orchestra, on Sunday, March 22. Up to five will become National Winners and will each receive $15,000.