One of the Mendelssohn Club's main contributions to furthering vocal music is the annual vocal award (scholarship) competition, named for the late Joel Dolven, who conducted the Mendelssohn Club from 1951-1966. Each year, the Club provides cash awards to young male and female vocalists to further their study.

The 2007 competition will be held at the New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 916 Western Avenue, Albany, on Saturday, April 14, 2007. The competition is done in recital format and is open to the public and free of charge.

The Club offers up to seven awards, one for men and one for women in each of three categories: Novice Student Division, for students aged 16 through 18; Intermediate Student Division, for students aged 19 through 22; Advanced Student Division, for students aged 23 through 30; plus the Joy B. Misenhimer Encouragement Award, open to any student in the competition who demonstrates outstanding singing potential. Award winners also receive two tickets to our Spring Concert, where they are recognized and their awards handed out. In addition to the awards, students gain valuable experience through participation in the audition recital. Some past winners have even appeared as soloists with the Club.

Contestants sing two selections. One of the selections should be from the concert, lieder, opera, or art song repertory. There is no language or memorization requirement, although memorization is strongly recommended. Contestants are encouraged to invite guests to attend the audition.

The Club hires two judges who are professional musicians and have extensive experience in the evaluation of vocal skill and musicianship.

Click here for an application form in PDF, or write to: Mendelssohn Club of Albany, P.O. Box 8715, Albany, NY 12208

©2007 Mendelssohn Club of Albany