Virginia Opera, The Denyce Graves Foundation, Norfolk State University and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra have announced “Voices Forward,” a collaborative vocal arts residency for emerging singers that will run from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1, 2026.

The residency will bring together aspiring singers, educators and industry professionals for programming focused on artistic excellence, professional development, mentorship and community engagement. It will conclude with a concert on Sunday, Nov. 1, at 2:30 p.m. at the Harrison Opera House in Norfolk.

The initiative builds on the launch of The Denyce Graves Foundation’s Generational Voices program and the foundation’s Generational Voices fellows will perform with a professional orchestra as part of the residency.

Norfolk State University is a key institutional partner and the university’s Concert Choir will present a solo showcase during the Nov. 1 concert, performing operatic selections with members of the Virginia Opera Chorus and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Virginia Opera and the foundation also anticipate adding students from Elizabeth City State University to the concert.

“We are so grateful to create this wonderful collaboration with our Generational Voices fellows. They will gain invaluable experience and insight that will change them forever,” said Denyce Graves, opera singer, director, teacher and founder of The Denyce Graves Foundation, per an official press release.

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