Festival Details

Syllabus and Guidelines 2025

Friday, January 31st, Saturday, February 1st and Sunday, February 2nd, 2025

“What you need to know!”

Q & A

*Special note regarding Illness:

As respiratory illnesses and other viruses make their rounds this winter, it’s important that those experiencing any active illness (including but not limited to fever, cough, congestion etc) do not participate. While we understand the disappointment that illness can cause, it’s of the utmost importance to keep those who are present and healthy safe so that our festival may continue. If you are many days passed a cold/illness, a minimum of 24-48 hours without a fever, and changes to your symptoms have stabilized and started improving, you may consider participating with a mask.*

Q: What is the NATS Student Vocal Festival?

A: We are an annual vocal festival competition located in Ottawa. Our event spans 3 days and includes of one hundred singers of various levels from age 10+. Our goal is to offer performing opportunities or learners and scholarships to successful performances to encourage and support music education in Voice.

Q: Who judges the singers?

A: The judges are comprised of a combination of teachers from the region who are members of the NATS organization. Some years we have special guests join our team!

Q: Where is the festival being held this year?

A: We will be hosting our 2025 festival at our old stomping grounds at the University of Ottawa, Perez Building.

Q: Do I need to introduce myself and my songs?

A: YES! Singers should be prepared to introduce themselves, their pianist and the music they’ll be presenting.

Q: What should I wear? (Dress Code+)

A: Performers should wear performance attire. Preferably no ripped jeans, dirty footwear or provocative tops. All are invited but the standard of performance should be part of all singer’s preparation. (Formal wear in the regular class competitions in not required; it is an option for the final Gala concert) No outdoor footwear will be permitted on the performance space.

Q: I have some questions about the festival. Who should I speak to?

A: Please submit any direct NATS festival related questions to the Chair of the Festival Dr. Andrea Kovago at festival.natsncr@gmail.com. Your voice teacher may also be able to answer questions!

Q: Can people come and hear me/my performer sing?

A: Yes! We have room for audiences in all our classes. There is no entrance fee for any of the individual festival classes however, there is a small admission fee for the final Gala concert round on Sunday, February 2nd at 3pm in Freiman Hall (Perez Building) University of Ottawa.

Q: Who sings in the final Gala on Sunday, February 2nd?

A: Winners from various class competitions on Friday and Saturday will be asked to compete in the final around on Sunday known as the “Gala Concert”. Typically, one piece of music is chosen from the repertoire shared earlier in the weekend. Scholarships/winnings are awarded at this time.