Gütersloh, February 20, 2026. Liz Mohn and Alexander Neef share a common goal: to provide long-term support to young opera talents on their way to an international career. In a trusting atmosphere, they discussed the key points of the upcoming preliminary rounds and the final round of NEUE STIMMEN in October. The conversation also focused on the further development of the competition and the foundation’s activities for the long-term promotion of young opera singers.
Liz Mohn emphasized the special responsibility, quality, and international appeal of the competition. NEUE STIMMEN, she said, is a place where exceptional voices are discovered, promoted, and strengthened in their artistic personality. Alexander Neef highlighted the competition’s outstanding position within the international opera world and the fact that it is a decisive turning point in the careers of many young artists. Many prize winners and former finalists are now successful performers on major international stages.
Liz Mohn and Alexander Neef agreed to further develop this profile of excellence, personality, and sustainable promotion of young talent. The more intensified use of the international network of jurors, experts, and alumni will also play a central role in the process. The goal is to further expand the “Creating Careers” concept and thus the individual support of young singers beyond their participation in the competition.
Alexander Neef is one of Europe’s leading cultural managers and is considered an outstanding expert and promoter of young singing talents. He has been associated with NEUE STIMMEN for many years. His professional career has taken him to the Salzburg Festival, the RuhrTriennale, and the Canadian Opera Company, among others. Since September 2020, he has been director of the Opéra national de Paris.
The final round of this year’s NEUE STIMMEN International Singing Competition will take place from the 4th to the 9th of October 2026. Information about the opportunity to attend the semifinals, a public dress rehearsal, and the finals in the Gütersloh Stadthalle will be provided on this site well in advance.
