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Hmm, my apologies as I haven't read the full thread, but the reason for that is that when I dipped in a couple of times I saw that there was a very low age limit, which wasn't posted in the title itself, so figured us older folks should stay out of it? Did I miss something?

Some of us 'old guys' don't have time for competitions. We're busy doing the stuff the competitors dream of doing. I love competition. It's competitions in art that are retarded. Ultimately it's a matter of the taste and, believe it or not, sometimes the politicking of the 'judges.' I suppose you have to start somewhere.

Yeah, I guess for me it's a bit depressing to see age limits because I spent the first 20-25 years of my software engineering career essentially putting my love for music and composing on the sidelines, so I'm getting a late start and haven't the time to "compete" per se.

I guess I should just take my pleasure from being a good mentor for young-uns (something I'm doing a lot of these days), and pass the baton to the next generation... or stubbornly hold fast to my fantasy of becoming a Borodin (a careerist who becomes a serious composer towards his natural "retirement" age).

MIDI Life Crisis wrote:Some of us 'old guys' don't have time for competitions. We're busy doing the stuff the competitors dream of doing. I love competition. It's competitions in art that are retarded. Ultimately it's a matter of the taste and, believe it or not, sometimes the politicking of the 'judges.' I suppose you have to start somewhere.

The world of opera is rife with competitions and young singers, mostly sopranos and tenors, beating their brains out hoping that this or that will get them their shot. Such exercises exist only for singers who aren't ready - or who never will be. The only one worth a damn is the Met because there are years in which no one is deemed ready so no prizes are awarded.

Experienced singers know that, if you're the right age, have the goods and learn the right roles, there is a career waiting for you. All you need is a decent work ethic and the ability to rehearse in German/French/Italian. You will make a comfortable living. Guaranteed. Audiences around the world pay way too much for singers who can't really deliver - but work anyway because 'better' is not available. There are plenty of companies around the world where one can get the needed experience and pay the dues. You don't need no stinkin' competition if you are good enough...

Oh yea, don't have a major stroke while in your mid '50s. The inability to move on stage without being a safety hazard... major career killer.