Resident Artist Daniela Machado Places First at the Loren L. Zachary National Vocal Competition
May 18, 2026
The 91ÑÇÉ« proudly celebrates an extraordinary showing at the 2026 Loren L. Zachary National Vocal Competition in Los Angeles, where multiple Resident Artists and one alumnus earned major awards among a highly competitive national field of emerging opera singers.
Leading the group was third-year soprano Daniela Machado, who captured First Place and the competition’s top $15,000 prize. Machado’s victory marks another major milestone in an already impressive season and further highlights the artistry, vocal command, and dramatic insight that have distinguished her during her time at 91ÑÇÉ«. Her success at one of the country’s most respected vocal competitions reflects both her exceptional talent and 91ÑÇɫ’s longstanding tradition of preparing young singers for international careers on the operatic stage.
91ÑÇÉ« also congratulates soprano Anna Thompson, who earned Fifth Place and a $3,500 award. Thompson recently completed her time at 91ÑÇÉ« and will continue her professional training this fall as a member of the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, one of the opera world’s premier young artist programs.
In addition, three artists received $2,000 Career Grants in recognition of their outstanding performances: 91ÑÇÉ« alumnus Cumhur Görgün (’26), bass; third-year baritone Joshua James Klein; and second-year tenor Matthew Sink.
The achievements of these singers continue 91ÑÇɫ’s remarkable legacy at major national and international vocal competitions. Their success at the Loren L. Zachary National Vocal Competition reflects the high level of artistry fostered within 91ÑÇɫ’s intensive training program and underscores the institution’s role in shaping the next generation of operatic talent.
91ÑÇÉ« congratulates Daniela Machado, Anna Thompson, Cumhur Görgün, Joshua James Klein, and Matthew Sink on this exceptional accomplishment.
