The “International Chinese Vocal Competition” is one of the major international cultural and artistic events hosted by New Tang Dynasty Television (NTD).
The competition is dedicated to promoting the cultural essence of divinely inspired Chinese civilization—rooted in reverence for Heaven, moral integrity, and the pursuit of pure truthfulness and beauty. It encourages contestants to perform authentic Chinese repertoire and to present an elevated, refined, and deeply moving artistic realm. Through music embodying purity and benevolence, the competition seeks to awaken hearts and revive the brilliance of traditional vocal art.
This competition aims to provide outstanding Chinese vocalists worldwide with a premier international platform of the highest artistic standard. It recognizes artists whose superb vocal mastery is matched by noble character, and who are able to profoundly interpret the true spirit of divinely inspired culture. In doing so, it aspires to inspire audiences with the power of purity and goodness, ensuring that these timeless artistic values are preserved and passed on to future generations.
Awards
Male division: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze;
Female division: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze;
Honorable Mention Awards will also be presented to exemplary contestants.
Gold AwardUS$10,000
Silver AwardUS$3,000
Bronze AwardUS$1,000
Note: According to U.S. tax regulations, if the prize winner is a foreign individual (nonresident alien or foreign entity), up to 30% of the prize winnings are subject to tax withhold. It is the contestant’s personal responsibility to file tax returns and obtain tax refunds.
Panel of Judges
The 2025 NTD International Chinese Vocal Competition has specially invited vocalists with the world-renowned Shen Yun Performing Arts to serve on its panel of judges.
Min Jiang
Soprano
Min Jiang has had a flourishing career that began at age 17, when she was selected to perform professionally as a featured soloist with the Heilongjiang Province Arts Troupe. She has received coaching in both Chinese folk singing and Western vocal methods from many accomplished voice teachers, and has been an adjudicator for the New Tang Dynasty Television International Chinese Vocal Competitions since their inception in 2007. Since joining Shen Yun Performing Arts in 2006, she has given over 1,000 performances on many of the world’s great stages.
Haolan Geng
Soprano
Known for her formidable and emotive voice, Haolan Geng won the gold medal at the First Music Competition of the Guangdong Arts Festival in 2007. A graduate of the Guangzhou Conservatory of Music, her 2008 graduation recital earned her critical acclaim. She later went on to star in the Guangdong Opera Company, and gained international attention in 2009 upon winning first prize in New Tang Dynasty Television’s International Chinese Vocal Competition. Also since 2009, she has been a soprano with Shen Yun Performing Arts.
Gu Yun
Tenor
Before becoming a soloist, Gu Yun graduated from China’s prestigious Beijing Academy of Dance and went on to win multiple national-level dance competitions in China. After joining Shen Yun as a principal dancer in 2009, Gu Yun also dedicated himself to dance choreography and instruction before finally turning to his passion of singing. He pursued the study of voice with Fei Tian College professor D.F. in New York. In 2018, he won first place at NTD International Chinese Vocal Competition.
Tian Li
Soprano
Tian Li began studying voice at age 7 before attending China’s Shenyang Conservatory of Music. After earning her bachelor’s degree, she then also pursued her master’s degree at the Conservatory. Tian Li has won awards at many vocal competitions. After auditioning into Shen Yun Performing Arts, she furthered her study of voice with D.F., professor at Fei Tian College, in the United States.
Gao Liang
Tenor
Gao Liang earned his master’s degree in vocal performance at the prestigious Gnessin Russian Academy of Music in Moscow. He is the winner of multiple international singing competitions in Europe. Before joining Shen Yun, he starred as Don Ottavio in Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Rodolfo in Puccini’s La bohème, and Nemorino in Donizetti’s L'elisir d'amore, among many other principal roles.
Qualifications to Enter the Competition
Open to all vocalists of the age between 18 and 50 years old during the time of the Competition. We encourage entry by professional vocal instructors, vocal artists, and students, as well as professional-level enthusiasts.
The contestants who won the gold award in NTD previous vocal competitions cannot compete again.
To qualify for the Competition: After the Organizing Committee reviews all of the application materials, a formal invitation will be sent by email to those who meet the criteria. The contestant may use this invitation to apply for a U.S. visa and to register on the day of the Competition.
Competition Content
This year’s vocal competition will use designated Chinese-language repertoire, including:
Chinese art songs
Original Shen Yun compositions
The Vocal Competition is honored to have received formal authorization from Mr. D.F., Artistic Director of the world-renowned Shen Yun Performing Arts, to select a number of designated competition pieces from among his exceptionally valuable musical works composed over the past twenty years.
Applicants who wish to register may request the sheet music for the designated Shen Yun songs for this year’s competition from the organizer.
Competition Procedure
1. Preliminary Round Perform one designated piece.
2. Semi-final Round Perform two designated pieces. The repertoire must not repeat that of the preliminary round.
3. Final Round Perform two designated pieces.
Accompaniment Arrangements
The organizer may provide piano accompaniment. Contestants may also bring their own piano accompanist.
Repertoire Submission
Applicants are required to submit, at the time of registration, the following materials for all pieces to be performed in the preliminary, semi-final, and final rounds:
The lyrics, melodies, and associated sheet music of the songs provided for this competition are protected by copyright law. The copyright belongs to the original creators or relevant rightsholders. Without prior authorization, no individual or group may reproduce, reprint, disclose, distribute, transmit, or disseminate all or any part of the sheet music in any form.
Participants may only use the relevant sheet music for competition purposes within the scope designated for this edition of the contest and in accordance with the organizer's regulations.
Competition Highlights
I. A Noble Cultural Mission
This competition serves as a refreshing current in today’s fast-paced world. Through repertoire that carries uplifting and meaningful messages, it conveys light, justice, and compassion, holding profound educational and social value.
Chinese art songs, enriched by five thousand years of cultural heritage, resonate emotionally with audiences from diverse backgrounds. They embody the highest purpose of art—elevating the human spirit—while promoting the international dissemination of traditional Chinese vocal artistry.
Your participation contributes to the revival and advancement of this treasured cultural heritage.
II. Distinct Cultural Positioning
The NTD International Chinese Vocal Competition is the world’s only international vocal competition dedicated to the promotion of divinely inspired Chinese culture.
This competition emphasizes reverence for Heaven and moral integrity, placing equal importance on character and artistry. We uphold aesthetic standards rooted in purity, truthfulness, benevolence, and beauty, remain committed to the orthodox vocal tradition, and pursue an artistic realm that uplifts the human spirit and conveys positive energy.
III. Distinctive and Profound Repertoire
In addition to selecting Chinese art songs of deep cultural significance, the competition is honored to have received formal authorization from Mr. D.F., Artistic Director of Shen Yun Performing Arts. Selected works from his twenty years of carefully crafted compositions have been designated as official competition repertoire.
These works seamlessly integrate orthodox vocal technique with profound spiritual depth. The melodies blend the elegance of the Eastern pentatonic tradition with the structural rigor of Western classical harmony, resulting in music that is luminous, dignified, pure, and transcendent.
The lyrics convey profound meaning, rising above worldly themes to address the essence of life itself. They transcend cultural boundaries and speak directly to the listener’s heart.
IV. Global Mainstream Media Livestream
The competition will be broadcast live through New Tang Dynasty Television (NTD) and The Epoch Times’ global television networks, websites, and social media platforms.
Nearly 230 million viewers worldwide will have the opportunity to witness this musical event.
V. Winners’ Concert at a Renowned New York Music Hall
All prize winners will have the opportunity to perform at the Winners’ Concert and Awards Ceremony held at a prestigious music hall in New York.
VI. A Global Promotional Platform
The NTD International Vocal Competition is the only world-class Chinese bel canto competition organized by a global television media network.
NTD Television reaches approximately 100 million viewers worldwide and offers multilingual programming in English, French, Spanish, Russian, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, and other languages. Across platforms such as YouTube, X, and Facebook, it has more than 70 million followers.
Its sister media, The Epoch Times, is published in 35 countries, with 23 language platforms reaching a combined audience of over 60 million readers and viewers worldwide.
The competition provides a powerful platform to present outstanding vocal talent to mainstream global audiences and influential Chinese communities.
VII. Professional Media Interview Opportunities
Prize winners will receive exclusive interview opportunities with NTD Television and The Epoch Times, allowing them to share their artistic philosophy and personal journey with global audiences across multiple languages.
VIII. Enhanced International Recognition and Career Opportunities
As one of the world’s distinguished vocal competitions, this event has gained recognition for its unique cultural positioning and repertoire selection.
Through global media exposure and prestigious performance opportunities, contestants gain valuable visibility that can lead to further performance invitations and professional advancement.
IX. A Pure and Professional Competitive Environment
Past participants consistently praise the competition for fostering an atmosphere where virtue and artistry flourish together.
The environment emphasizes artistic exchange over rivalry. Warm, respectful, and professional, it brings together performers who share a common dedication to preserving traditional art. Many contestants describe the experience as both an artistic refinement and a meaningful spiritual journey.
Accepted forms of payment include online payment, credit card, traveler’s check, or money orders.
Please make your check payable to NEW TANG DYNASTY, and write “VocalCompetition” on the check.
Mail: 129 W. 29th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001, U.S.A.
Attention: NTD Television International Chinese Vocal Competition
3. Personal Information
Each applicant must provide digital photo and a copy of a valid ID.
The applicant should submit a recent recording(s) of his/her recital in the format of video (viewable online video link). No subtitles or logos that reveal any information about the applicant may be displayed in the video. Otherwise, the submission will be invalid. If the applicant has difficulty in fulfilling this request, please contact the Competition’s Organizing Committee.
4. Registration Fee Explanation
1) Nonrefundable registration fee. Applications cannot be processed without payment.
2) Under normal circumstances, the applicant's registration becomes valid only after paying the registration fee. For applicants who cannot prepay the registration fee due to particular difficulties, they are required to submit a formal written request to delay the payment of the registration fee until the time of Competition. There will be a US$20 surcharge for such case.
5. Registered express mail charges
For contestants who need an original (paper format) invitation letter for visa application, an additional US $50 fee is required for USPS Priority Mail Express International shipping. Please check this option on the Registration Form.
6. New Tang Dynasty Television is indemnified from any legal responsibility for any contestant who enters the U.S. with a visa for this Competition but does not appear at the Competition.
FAQ
I. Registration & Eligibility
Q：Who is eligible to participate in the 2027 NTD International Chinese Vocal Competition?
A： Any vocal performer who meets the registration eligibility requirements may apply. The competition is primarily open to Chinese singers, including students from music conservatories, professional or semi-professional singers, choir members, and vocalists with formal vocal training. Specific eligibility criteria will be defined in the registration prospectus for the given year.
Q：When does registration open?
A：The registration period will be announced several months prior to the competition. Please refer to the competition website and New Tang Dynasty platforms for updates.
Q： Is there a registration fee?
A：Yes. The registration fee and payment method will be detailed in the registration prospectus. Fees may vary by division.
II. Competition Process
Q：What stages does the competition include?
A： The competition generally consists of a preliminary round, a semi-final round, and a grand final. The exact structure will be announced for the specific year.
Q：Are the preliminary and semi-final rounds online or in person?
A： For the 2027 competition, both the preliminary and semi-final rounds will take place in New York City, USA. The specific format and schedule will be announced on the competition website.
III. Repertoire & Performance Requirements
Q：What repertoire may contestants perform?
A：Contestants may perform only the designated Chinese-language repertoire officially published on the competition website. All selections must be chosen from the current year’s designated repertoire list. Self-selected or non-designated works will not be accepted.
Q：Is there a time limit for performances in each round?
A：No. Contestants should perform the designated repertoire according to its specified duration.
IV. Judging & Awards
Q：What are the judging criteria?
A：Evaluation will be based on a comprehensive assessment of intonation, vocal technique, vocal quality, musical interpretation, language articulation, and overall stage presentation. Judging will be conducted by an international panel of professional vocal experts.
Q：What awards and prizes are offered?
A：Major awards include Gold Prize, Silver Prize, Bronze Prize, and Excellence Awards. Award recipients will receive prize money, formal certificates, and opportunities for future performances and exposure. Specific award details will be announced officially.
V. Venue & Schedule
Q： Where will the competition be held?
A：Grand Final: A major concert hall or performing arts center in New York City, USA. Preliminary & Semi-final Rounds: New York City, USA
VI. Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q：If I have additional questions, how can I contact the organizer?
A：Please use the contact information provided on the competition website or email the competition’s designated email address for inquiries.
All competition details, rules, and arrangements are subject to the formal announcements and registration prospectus of the 2027 NTD International Chinese Vocal Competition, which shall prevail.
Organizer
New Tang Dynasty Television (NTD) was founded in New York in 2001. It is the world’s first global, independent, non-profit Chinese-language television news and entertainment network established by overseas Chinese. NTD began satellite broadcasting in North America in February 2002, then expanded its 24/7 programming to Asia, Europe, and Australia in July 2003. Headquartered in New York City, NTD is internationally recognized for extensive cultural and entertainment programs that blend the best of Eastern and Western cultures, as well as for objective, timely reporting on economic, political, and cultural stories in Chinese.
NTD also produces content in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Russian, Hebrew, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, and more. Across satellite, cable, over-the-air broadcasts, streaming platforms, and magazines, NTD connects with around 100 million viewers worldwide. The network also reaches more than 70 million followers across YouTube, X, Facebook, and other social platforms.
Beyond broadcasting, NTD is proud to organize the world’s largest international cultural competitions and events. Since 2007, it has launched a global series of competitions designed to promote and revive world and Chinese traditional culture and arts through large-scale, high-quality cultural programs and major events. This cultural platform—spanning Classical Chinese Dance, Vocal, Han Couture Design, Chinese Culinary, Traditional Chinese Martial Arts, Violin, Piano, Oil Painting, Photography, and Beauty Pageant—advances cultural exchange between East and West and helps audiences worldwide better understand the essence of traditional Chinese and Western culture: pure authenticity, goodness, and beauty.
NTD has also been the media sponsor for Shen Yun Performing Arts, hailed as the “world’s number one show.” As Shen Yun rapidly entered the global mainstream market in just a few short years, NTD, as the exclusive television media sponsor, made an indelible contribution by broadcasting to the world the artistic essence and cultural values presented by Shen Yun.
Hotels & Transport
The Competition's Organization Committee will recommend hotels to contestants.
Contestants and their entourage shall pay for their own accommodation and transportation.
Miscellaneous
All contestants shall comply with the Rules and Regulations, as well as all the arrangements of the Competition's Organization Committee. The committee reserves the right to revoke violators' eligibility and the prizes awarded in the case of breaches of Competition regulations.
Contestants take full responsibility for any copyright issues related to the music they choose for the Competition.
All winners must personally attend the award ceremony to accept the prize. Cash will not be awarded in lieu of that prize. Failure to attend the ceremony results in forfeiture of the prize.
New Tang Dynasty Television retains all copyright to audio and video products made during the Competition.
