FINAL ROUND RECITALS SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2026
DUE DROP EVENTS CENTRE MANUKAU

FREE ENTRY AND PARKING – No tickets required

The Manukau Symphony Orchestra, with the generous support of the Nicholas Tarling Charitable Trust, proudly presents the fourth annual Nicholas Tarling Aria Competition.

Named in honour of Professor Nicholas Tarling – a distinguished historian, passionate opera lover, and tireless advocate for musical talent in New Zealand – the competition reflects the MSO’s commitment to fostering opportunity and excellence within the community, particularly across South Auckland.

Entries are open to singers of all backgrounds and experience levels, offering a platform to perform, connect, and grow.

The 2026 competition includes three divisions:

18 Years and Under
Scholarship Division (ages 19–35)
Tarling Trophy (ages 36 and over)

Prizes
First Prize                                         $5,000 and a professionally edited recording with MSO
Runner-up                                       $3,000 and a professionally edited recording with MSO
Most Promising Singer             $1,000
Sally Stone Award                       $1,000
18 Years and Under Prize       $1,000
Tarling Aria Trophy                      Engraved trophy to hold for one year

 Competition Timeline
Digital Round  closed Sunday 23 November 2025
Applicants must upload a video performance to YouTube and submit the online application form via www.tarlingaria.org.nz

 Final Round Recitals Sunday 15 February 2026
Due Drop Events Centre Manukau

3.00pm 18 Years and Under | Tarling Aria Trophy
4.30pm Scholarship Division

Finalists will perform with accompanist Rosemary Barnes for the adjudicators, friends, and family. Winners will be announced at the conclusion of the concert.

 Winner Performances | MSO Family Concert
Sunday 20 September 2026, 2.30pm & 5.00pm   Due Drop Events Centre Manukau
The First Prize Winner and Runner-up will perform popular arias with the Manukau Symphony Orchestra at the Wiri Licensing Trust Presents MSO Family Concert 2026, conducted by Brent Stewart. Visit our concert page for more information and how to book.