Preserving the legacy of Opera.
Started in 1971, the George and Nora London Foundation competition is one of the oldest and most prestigious vocal competitions providing awards to young American and Canadian opera singers at the beginning of their careers.
Who Was
George London?
George London was a monumental figure in the opera world, known for his deep, resonant bass-baritone voice that first shook the musical scene in Vienna in 1949. Born in Montreal in 1920 and relocating to Los Angeles as a teenager, London's early talent quickly propelled him into the spotlight alongside legends like Mario Lanza.
By 31, he had made a stunning debut at the Metropolitan Opera, earning acclaim for his vocal beauty and powerful stage presence. His career featured celebrated performances in some of the most demanding roles across major opera houses worldwide.
A legacy of excellence.
Inspired by his own early struggles as an Opera signer, George London established the Foundation in 1971 with support from the National Opera Institute and the National Endowment for the Arts to ease the path for future generations.
After George's passing, his widow, Nora London, led the Foundation for over three decades until her passing in 2022, introducing an annual recital series to showcase past award winners and launching the George London Foundation Pre-College Scholarships in 2010 to aid exceptional high school students.
Get involved
The Competition
Perform alongside North America’s most promising opera talent in our annual competition.
Juillard’s Pre-College Program
Since 2010, the Foundation has been awarding scholarships to America’s finest young singers.
Stay in the know
Sign-up for our email list to get updates on performances and events.
Donate
Contribute to our mission to support the next generation of the Opera.
Media & Performances
Bass-baritone George London sings Iago's aria
George London. "Abendlich strahlt der Sonne Auge"
Farewell, my son (Boris Godunov)
Maria Callas & George London Tosca in New York 25th November 1956
George London sings the "Te Deum" from Tosca. Live performance at La Scala
George London – Tosca Ha piu forte sapore (live 1961)
Anna Moffo George London Mozart’s “Don Giovanni”
George London - Champagne aria - Finch'han dal vino
George London, FAUST (Gounod) — Vous qui faite l’endormie,
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