In Montpellier, the Opéra Junior Choir School Awarded the Prestigious Bettencourt Prize
The Opéra Junior of Montpellier, a shining example of regional vitality, has been honored with the Liliane Bettencourt Prize for Choral Singing. This prize, an exceptional recognition in the field of choral singing in France, rewards the efforts of this unique choir school, which introduces 200 young people passionate about the performing arts each year. This distinction testifies to the importance of regional cultural projects and underscores the need to support them, strengthening the link between young talent and local artistic tradition.
A Prestigious Prize for Opéra Junior
November 12, 2025, at 6:19 p.m. will mark a key date for the Opéra Junior Choir School of Montpellier, as it has been awarded the Liliane Bettencourt Prize for Choral Singing. This award, the most prestigious in its category, was revealed by an official announcement broadcast the same day. Chaired by renowned conductor Debora Waldman, the 35th edition of this prize has chosen to highlight the remarkable work of this choir, unique in France.
A model for training the younger generationThe choir, an integral part of the Montpellier Occitanie Opera Orchestra, caters to a wide range of young people, from 4 to 29 years old. Its aim is to introduce new generations to the many disciplines of the performing arts in the world of opera, including singing, acting, and dance. This holistic and passionate approach allows nearly 200 children, teenagers, and young adults each year to discover and flourish in this rich artistic world. Recognition of the vitality of regional opera houses Debora Waldman, also music director of the Avignon National Orchestra, emphasized that this decision was more than just an award. By recognizing Opéra Junior, the jury wishes to send a strong message: our regional opera houses are essential cultural pillars, requiring support and recognition. Since its creation in partnership with the Academy of Fine Arts in 1990, the prize has aimed to showcase and encourage the richness of choral music across the country.
An educational and cultural mission
The success of Opéra Junior rests on a philosophy rooted in commitment and the passing on of knowledge. By fostering the emergence of new talent, this institution demonstrates the importance of cultivating a love of singing from a very young age. “Choral singing can only flourish in France if there are people who love and want to sing… especially children,” stated Debora Waldman, thus reiterating the mission of the choir school.