On this page, you will find answers to frequently asked questions.
Although you are welcome to apply, applicants are generally expected to be active students of classical singing or dedicated amateurs who aim seriously for a high international professional level.
The Mirjam Helin Academy is intended for singers and singing students who demonstrate an excellent work ethic and a strong ambition to reach a high international level as vocal artists. The older the applicant, the further we expect them to be in their professional development. We look for applicants with strong motivation, a goal‑oriented approach to their studies, the willingness and the capacity to fully commit to the Academy’s programme, as well as an excellent singing voice and musicality. Proficiency in working in English is also essential.
The songs may be selected from any area of the classical vocal repertoire, including opera arias, lieder, Baroque songs, or oratorio arias. The primary objective for the singer is to demonstrate their highest level of technical ability and artistic expression.
An opera aria is not required. The most important thing is to present two songs in different languages and styles, allowing the pre‑selection jury to hear the qualities of your voice and assess its potential.
Yes. In the second round, you must perform different songs than in the video audition. In the first round, the songs may be accompanied by other instrument than piano. In the second round, the songs must be performed with piano accompaniment.
The Academy does not concentrate exclusively on either lieder or opera repertoire. Each student admitted to the Academy receives an individual study plan tailored to their specific needs.
The Finnish Cultural Foundation aims to support promising young artists in achieving international breakthroughs in the field of classical singing. Many Finns aspire to a career as an international opera or lieder singer, yet many also require additional support to develop versatile professional skills, build networks, and strengthen their mental resilience.
The selected singers are expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies. However, we recognize that if a professional career advances significantly during the period of study at the Academy, it may become necessary to suspend studies. We are committed to supporting each student on an individual basis and will continue to provide support also in cases where an international career requires a temporary interruption of studies at the Academy.
Selected singers are expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies. Absences from teaching periods are acceptable only when they are related to compulsory components of basic studies or degree requirements, previously scheduled entrance examinations or auditions, or high-level professional engagements such as opera roles.
The Finnish Cultural Foundation covers the costs of studies, travel, accommodation, and meals during the teaching periods. The Foundation also funds the Academy’s study trips abroad and provides funding for each student’s concert project.
Videos must be uploaded via the application form, as the pre-selection committee will review the submissions through the Embark application system. The maximum file size for each video is 2 GB. The system supports all commonly used video formats, including AVI, MOV, MP4, MPEG, MPG, and WMV. Should you encounter any issues when uploading your videos, please contact technical support for assistance support@embark.com.