Elīna Garanča. Young Baltic Voices is the first and only program for young vocalists in the Baltics. Its mission is to support emerging talents from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia as they successfully begin their journey on the international stage by providing practical experience, professional guidance, and the development of skills essential for today’s opera industry. The program will run for one season, from September to June, offering intensive training and stage practice at the Latvian National Opera in close collaboration with the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music. The Elīna Garanča. Young Baltic Voices program is made possible thanks to a generous donation from the family of distinguished stage and costume designer Pēteris Rožlapa (1906–1991).

"For young artists, the real journey begins not in the classroom, but on the audition stage, in front of the intendant, with agencies, and alongside experienced colleagues in rehearsal. Through my collaboration with the Latvian National Opera, I hope to offer guidance that eases this transition - turning a thousand uncertain steps into a hundred purposeful ones. More than give answers, I aim to open new perspectives, so singers can move forward with confidence, inspiration, and a clearer sense of direction," says Elīna Garanča.

The Latvian National Opera and Ballet will oversee the program and provide participants with the opportunity to perform on stage.

 “Latvia and the Baltics can be proud of our outstanding opera soloists and wonderful voices. Our opera house has been the starting point of many brilliant careers. I am convinced that with the Elīna Garanča Young Soloists Program – by providing the support of professional teachers, hands-on training, and masterclasses – we will offer a strong foundation for new Baltic talents as well,” explains Sandis Voldiņš, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian National Opera and Ballet.

​The first audition for the 2026/2027 season will begin in January 2026 and will take place in two rounds. The first round will involve a remote selection based on submitted materials (including recordings). Applicants who advance to the second round will be invited to live auditions at the Latvian National Opera.

​Each season, the program will admit four young vocalists under the age of thirty from the Baltic States, with the option to expand the group to five participants. Ideally, the singers will represent different voice types, but the main admission criteria are talent and potential. Applicants must have completed their vocal studies; final-year students graduating in the first half of 2026 are also eligible.

The program’s content will be structured into three complementary modules. The first module is dedicated to vocal development, refinement of interpretive skills, and strengthening of technique. The second module will focus on acting, movement, and practical stage work. The third module will concentrate on mentoring, career development skills, and an in-depth understanding of the opera industry. While the program does not grant a formal degree, it provides comprehensive practical experience.

Up-to-date information about the program will be available at www.youngbalticvoices.com, as well as on the Latvian National Opera and Ballet website www.opera.lv and its social media channels.