February 12, 2026
The Academy of Vocal Arts proudly celebrates the extraordinary success of its Resident Artists at the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition’s Middle Atlantic Region. Among the most prestigious competitions for emerging opera singers in the United States, the Laffont Competition has long served as a launching pad for young artists poised for major careers on the world’s leading stages. This year, AVA singers distinguished themselves with an impressive sweep of top honors.
Second-year mezzo-soprano Julianna Smith and first-year soprano Anna Thompson were both named winners in the Middle Atlantic Region, a remarkable achievement that underscores the depth of talent within AVA’s resident company. Smith continues to build momentum in a repertoire that spans Mozart, Gounod, and other cornerstone works of the operatic canon. Thompson, early in her tenure at AVA, has already earned recognition in major competitions alongside her accomplishments in leading roles.
Adding to the Academy’s strong showing, fourth-year mezzo-soprano Alla Yarosh earned 2nd Place honors. Yarosh has taken on a range of significant mezzo-soprano repertoire during her time at AVA, further solidifying her standing as an emerging artist to watch.
Second-year mezzo-soprano Katherine Dobbs was awarded 3rd Place in the region and was also recently named the winner of the Laffont Competition’s Philadelphia District. Dobbs’ dual recognition at both the district and regional levels reflects her continued artistic growth and competitive success.
That four AVA Resident Artists claimed the top three placements in the Middle Atlantic Region is a testament not only to their individual achievement, but also to AVA’s rigorous, tuition-free training model and its commitment to preparing singers for international careers. The Academy extends its heartfelt congratulations to Julianna Smith, Anna Thompson, Alla Yarosh, and Katherine Dobbs on these outstanding accomplishments and looks forward to their continued success as they advance in the competition and beyond.
In image from left to right: Juliana Smith, Anna Thompson, Alla Yarosh, and Katherine Dobbs