Amelia Island Opera presents famed opera soprano Amy Shoremount-Obra

This weekend’s Bosland Young Artist Vocal Competition opens with a special recital Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, 5 p.m. at Story & Song Center for Arts & Culture, featuring acclaimed soprano Amy Shoremount-Obra and pianist Felix Jarrar. A celebrated artist on the world stage, Shoremount-Obra has performed at the Metropolitan Opera, where she made her debut as First Lady in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, and has appeared in leading opera and concert venues throughout the United States and abroad. Known for her powerful voice, expressive artistry, and remarkable versatility, she has earned recognition for performances spanning the great works of Mozart, Verdi, Wagner, and Puccini.

$40 • Cash bar available

Story & Song Center for Arts & Culture
1430 Park Avenue
904-601-2118

Background

After last year’s vocal competition, Paul Bosland made the largest single donation in Amelia Island Opera’s history. His support allowed for the competition to become a three-day festival focused on performance, education, and financial support for young singers.

Paul didn’t simply sponsor an event. He saw young artists take an early, vulnerable step in their careers and decided their work deserved greater support. His gift turned one successful competition into a larger promise: that these singers would be taken seriously, paid meaningful prizes, and given access to an artist working at the highest professional level.

Amy Shoremount-Obra represents what this year’s nine competitors may become. The competitors represent where every established artist once began. Paul’s support connects those two points.

On Saturday, nine singers ages 18-22 will compete for substantial cash prizes. They come from across the country and represent a range of backgrounds and experiences. Audiences rarely get to hear so many talented young singers in one place.

Competitors from last year's 2025 competition.

Amy will also serve as a competition judge. On Sunday, she will lead a public master class, giving the singers direct feedback and professional guidance.

That combination — an internationally recognized artist, a national young-artist competition, meaningful cash prizes, and professional instruction — is why the event was expanded into a full weekend. With Paul Bosland’s support, Amelia Island Opera can offer young singers the opportunities they need while bringing outstanding talent to our community.

For more information and/or to buy tickets: Amelia Island Opera